Under-Construction Bridge Collapse in Kumarghat, Sparks Corruption Allegations and Public Outrage

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, April 8, 2026

A major incident of alleged substandard construction has come to light after an under-construction concrete bridge over the Manu River collapsed on Tuesday in Kumarghat under Unakoti district, triggering widespread outrage among local residents.

The bridge, which was being built to connect Sonaimuri and Fatikroy Jagannathpur Panchayat areas, is considered a crucial component of the Kailashahar–Kumarghat alternative road. The project had been under construction for over eight years, raising serious concerns about delays, mismanagement, and possible corruption.

According to sources, the project was initially launched during the Left Front government tenure, when then Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Badal Choudhury inaugurated the foundation stone. During that period, preliminary work including the construction of two pillars had been completed.

However, after a change in government, the project reportedly stalled. Allegations have surfaced that under the current BJP-led government, irregularities within the PWD and delays in bill payments to the contractor led to prolonged suspension of work. Eventually, the contractor is said to have abandoned the project due to financial losses, leaving construction materials exposed and damaged, further raising questions about administrative negligence.

Amid growing public protests and pressure, construction work was later resumed. However, local residents allege that the work was carried out hastily using substandard materials. Despite repeated complaints regarding poor construction quality, no effective action was reportedly taken by the authorities.

The collapse of the bridge has now intensified allegations of corruption. Locals claim that bribery and lack of accountability allowed inferior work to continue unchecked. The incident has also fueled strong resentment against the present administration, with demands for a thorough investigation and strict legal action against those responsible.

As of now, no official legal action has reportedly been taken against the contractor or officials involved, further deepening public anger and mistrust.

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