A massive disaster occurred in Tripura’s Unakoti district as the under-construction Telia-Sunaimuri bridge, connecting Pabiachara and Fatikroy, collapsed abruptly. The project, sanctioned with a budget of over ₹6 crores in 2017, was currently being managed by a Kolkata-based firm under the supervision of the PWD.

Allegations of Malpractice: Congress MLA Sudip Roy Barman visited the site on Wednesday and launched a scathing attack on the state government. He alleged that the bridge collapsed due to extremely sub-standard materials, fueled by the “cut-money” culture of ministers. Locals are questioning the safety of the structure, fearing for their lives even if the bridge is eventually completed.

PWD’s Response: The Public Works Department (PWD) cited environmental factors, stating that recent storms and increased river currents damaged the shuttering and centering of the span, leading to the collapse. While authorities claim regular monitoring, locals and political leaders are demanding a high-level investigation to punish those responsible for this life-threatening negligence.