Amid growing public concern over repeated fatal accidents, the Odisha government has announced plans to redesign the Haldiapadar overbridge in Berhampur, located in Ganjam district.
Transport Minister Bibhuti Jena stated that the overbridge had inherent design flaws since its construction and assured that necessary structural modifications would be undertaken to prevent further mishaps. The announcement comes after mounting criticism from residents and political leaders following a series of deadly road accidents on the bridge.
The controversy intensified after a January 31 accident reportedly claimed five lives, renewing demands for an urgent review of the structure. The Minister admitted that shortcomings in the original design contributed to safety risks and confirmed that a comprehensive redesign would be implemented in the interest of commuters.
Local residents have expressed dissatisfaction over delays in inspection and corrective action. Some claimed that nearly 26 lives have been lost in accidents on the overbridge since its inauguration. Allegations were also made that a scheduled inspection team failed to visit the site as expected.
Concerns were further raised regarding ex-gratia compensation for victims’ families, with residents urging the government to expedite financial assistance alongside structural corrections.
The issue has triggered political debate across party lines. Digapahandi MLA Sidhant Mohapatra questioned how such significant design flaws went unnoticed during construction, stating that similar problems have not been observed in other bridges.
Adding another layer to the controversy, Surjya Narayan Patro’s son, Biplab Patra, acknowledged that land beneath the flyover had previously belonged to his family. Allegations have also surfaced suggesting possible alterations in the alignment of the overbridge during execution.
MLAs from both the BJP and Congress have sought clarity on the planning, approval, and execution process of the project.
With public pressure mounting, authorities have assured that a detailed structural assessment will be conducted before redesigning the overbridge. The government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring commuter safety and preventing further loss of life.
