Noida's Dilapidated Bridge Poses Grave Risk to Daily Commuters
In a stark reminder of civic neglect, a narrow bridge in Noida, officially declared dilapidated by the Noida Authority, continues to serve as a critical pedestrian shortcut, putting daily commuters at serious risk. The bridge, which connects Sector 81 Metro Station to Salarpur village, is riddled with visible cracks and an uneven surface, yet remains heavily used by residents, primarily industrial and domestic workers from Salarpur and neighboring Bhangel.
Daily Commute Amidst Structural Hazards
Despite its precarious condition, the bridge is a lifeline for many, allowing them to cross the Kondli drain to access the metro station and workplaces in the NSEZ, Sector 81, and nearby 7x sectors. This usage peaks during morning rush hours, when pedestrians are forced to squeeze past each other on the narrow structure. Often, commuters step onto the low parapet wall to avoid crowds or stray cattle that also traverse the connector, further increasing the danger of accidents.
The absence of barricades or access restrictions exacerbates the peril, with no measures in place to prevent use or warn of the risks. Below the bridge, the Kondli drain is clogged with filth and plastic waste, which not only poses health hazards but also amplifies the danger of slips or structural failure should someone fall into the polluted water.
Renewed Concerns Over Civic Enforcement
The continued reliance on this unsafe crossing has reignited concerns about civic enforcement and public safety in Noida. This comes just weeks after the tragic drowning of software engineer Yuvraj Mehta in an unbarricaded, water-filled trench in Sector 150, highlighting a pattern of negligence in infrastructure maintenance.
Responsibility for the area is split between different departments: the Noida Authority's health department handles sanitation, while maintenance of the bridge falls under the civil wing. This division of duties may contribute to the lack of coordinated action, leaving the bridge in a state of disrepair without clear accountability.
Authorities Remain Silent on the Issue
When approached for comment, Noida Authority general manager (civil) AK Arora did not respond to requests, underscoring the apparent lack of urgency in addressing this public safety crisis. The silence from officials raises questions about the effectiveness of governance and the prioritization of citizen welfare in urban planning.
As commuters continue to risk their lives daily, the situation calls for immediate intervention to either repair or replace the bridge, implement safety barricades, and ensure regular inspections. Without swift action, the potential for a catastrophic incident looms large, mirroring past tragedies and emphasizing the need for robust civic infrastructure management.
