A preliminary safety assessment of the Saleri bridge, which connects the villages of Agonda and Khola, has raised serious structural concerns, prompting renewed public demand for its demolition and reconstruction.
The inspection was conducted by a team from Shri Infotech’s Mobile Bridge Inspection Unit (MBIU), Hyderabad, which carried out both Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) and Destructive Testing (DT) on the decades-old structure. According to sources, the NDT results were “unsatisfactory and doubtful,” prompting the team to carry out a core-cutting test, the results of which are currently undergoing laboratory analysis.
The Saleri bridge, a four-span structure over 50 years old, will be assessed based on a 5-point condition scale, with ‘Category 5’ indicating a critical threat. Initial findings reveal that the 1st and 4th pillars are seriously weakened, while although the remaining two pillars appear structurally sound, the bridge girders have significantly deteriorated and are considered almost entirely doubtful.
A final report is expected in about 15 days, pending lab results. However, in the meantime, locals from both villages are urging the government to act immediately, warning that the fragile bridge poses a serious threat to public safety.
“This bridge has outlived its lifespan and can collapse at any time. It is no longer safe for traffic,” said Jayram Pagui, a Khola resident and vocal advocate for infrastructure improvements in the area. Pagui had previously written to Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, raising several critical issues in Khola village, including the urgent need for a new bridge across the Saleri river. He also pointed out that no concrete action had been taken following a PWD inspection in February.