Initial reports of a bridge collapse on the outskirts of Rajkot triggered widespread alarm among residents on Tuesday. However, local development authorities swiftly moved to dispel the rumors, clarifying that the incident was a controlled safety operation and not a structural failure.
What Actually Happened at Korat Chowk?
The situation unfolded along the stretch where the Rajkot Urban Development Authority (RUDA) is actively constructing the new Ring Road-2. This major infrastructure project aims to connect the city to the national highway leading towards Gondal. The current two-lane road and existing bridge are being widened into a four-lane carriageway, which includes building a parallel bridge.
During construction work on Monday, engineers encountered a technical issue. An executive engineer observed a slight bend in one of the supports beneath a newly constructed 10-meter span slab. The slab, weighing approximately 200 tonnes, was in place, and the support may have begun to yield under the immense load.
Precautionary Measure, Not a Collapse
In response to this discovery, RUDA officials made an immediate decision. RUDA Chief Executive Officer G V Miyani stated that as a strict precautionary safety measure, the contractor was instructed to deliberately dismantle and remove the affected slab section. This planned demolition is what led to speculation and rumors of a sudden bridge collapse among onlookers and the public.
"There was no collapse," emphasized CEO Miyani, addressing the concerns directly. The removal was a proactive step taken to address a potential risk identified during the building process, not a reaction to an accident.
Next Steps for the Ring Road-2 Project
Officials confirmed that the construction methodology will now follow standard procedure for such cases. The affected span will be entirely rebuilt to ensure the highest safety standards for the new bridge. The incident, while causing a temporary stir, highlights the rigorous monitoring protocols in place for major public works projects in Gujarat.
The Rajkot Urban Development Authority (RUDA) continues its work on the crucial Ring Road-2, a project designed to significantly improve connectivity and reduce traffic congestion for the city's residents. The authority's clarification has helped assuage public fears, turning the focus back to the project's completion and benefits.
