• Source:JND
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A bridge collapsed in Himachal Pradesh's Mandi after an overweight vehicle passed over it during the early hours on Saturday. The bridge is a crucial link between Mandi and Kullu and therefore the collapse has led to traffic disruption on the National Highway 305.

The incident took place at Mangalore between Kullu and Mandi. Speaking about the incident, Kullu Deputy Commissioner Torul S Ravneesh said, "A bridge has collapsed at Mangalore, located between Kullu and Mandi. Preliminary, it collapsed after an overweight vehicle tried to cross the bridge. We have also built a footpath. The bridge was old. Work is also going on on an alternate route."

As per reports, the bridge was constructed in 1980, and it collapsed suddenly after the truck passed over it. The truck plunged into the river flowing beneath the bridge. The accident left the driver of the truck injured.

Reacting to the incident, Banjar MLA Surender Shourie said that the collapse prompted swift action from the local administration and NHAI. Teams were directed to prepare an alternative route. However, officials have warned that, given the extent of the damage, the process may take some time for implementation.

"Travelers planning to use NH-305 are strongly advised to reconsider their travel plans and opt for alternate routes until the damaged section is repaired and deemed safe for use. Authorities are working to ensure minimum disruption and are expected to provide updates on the progress of the temporary access path soon," the MLA said.

The officials of the district administration and police went to the spot upon receiving information. The injured was taken to a nearby hospital and is undergoing treatment, they added.

Deputy Commissioner Ravneesh said that machinery was deployed at the site and restoration work was underway. Meanwhile, the administration was making efforts to identify alternate routes and resume the movement of light vehicles.

The traffic at the bridge has been diverted via Pandoh to reduce inconvenience. "The work of installing a bailey bridge will also be initiated soon" she said.

(With Inputs From Agencies)