Residents demand urgent inspection, immediate repairs
The damaged section of the bridge at Khadki where a portion of the lower structure has collapsed.
VALPOI
A serious safety concern has arisen in Khadki village of Sattari taluka after a portion of the underside of a small arch bridge on the main road leading to Shri Sateri Temple collapsed, raising fears about the structure's stability and the safety of commuters.
The bridge is an important link for local residents, students, farmers, and devotees visiting the temple. With regular vehicular movement on the route, the damage has caused concern among villagers and daily commuters.
Photographs shared by local residents show significant deterioration on the bridge's underside, with large sections of concrete having fallen off. Visible cracks and signs of erosion have also been noticed, prompting demands for an urgent technical inspection to assess the bridge's structural condition.
Residents fear that the ongoing monsoon season could aggravate the damage, as continuous exposure to water and moisture may further weaken the aging structure. They have warned that any delay in repairs could make the bridge unsafe for public use.
Adding to the concern is the accumulation of soil, silt, vegetation, and other debris beneath the bridge. Locals point out that such blockages could obstruct the natural flow of water during heavy rainfall, increasing pressure on the structure and accelerating its deterioration.
Citizens have urged the Gram Panchayat, the Public Works Department (PWD), and other concerned authorities to conduct an immediate site inspection and undertake a detailed safety assessment through qualified engineers. They have also demanded prompt repair and strengthening measures to ensure the bridge remains safe for public use.
According to residents, the road serves as a vital connectivity route for several villages and is important for daily transportation, agricultural activities, and religious purposes. They cautioned that neglecting the issue could lead to a major accident in the future.
Locals have stressed that preventive action should be taken without delay and have called for the immediate removal of accumulated silt, debris, and vegetation beneath the bridge to facilitate the smooth flow of water during the monsoon.
Residents have appealed to the authorities to treat the matter with urgency and initiate corrective measures at the earliest to prevent any loss of life or property.
