British-Era Patraput Iron Bridge, Locals outcry for Urgent Conservation.

The historic Patraput iron bridge,built during the British era in 1931 has become the centre of growing concern among locals as its deteriorating condition poses risks to commuters.

On Saturday the Boipariguda public forum which includes the local public representatives stakeholders demads protection of 94-Year-Old Patraput Iron Bridge and Stages Demonstration near the bridge on the Ranchi–Vijayawada National Highway no 326 demanding both the protection of the existing structure and the immediate construction of a new bridge the 94-year-old iron bridge constructed across the Kolab river without supporting pillars, is regarded as a unique engineering feat of its time.

It continues to serve as the only lifeline for vehicles heading towards tourist and pilgrimage destinations such as Machhkund and Gupteshwar,as well as routes connecting Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Telangana every day thousands of small and heavy vehicles cross the bridge raising safety concerns due to its fragile state protestors held banners and raised slogans pointing out that despite repeated appeals no alternative bridge has been provided in nearly a century.

They alleged that the administration has neglected both the safety and heritage value of the bridge recently, the National Highways Authority of India floated a tender for the construction of a new bridge, but it was cancelled for unspecified reasons, further fuelling public resentment.The Boipariguda Security Forum stressed that the cancellation reflects the government’s indifference towards the long-pending demand of the people.

Speaking at the protest members of the Forum insisted that while a new bridge is urgently required to meet traffic needs the existing British-era bridge should be preserved as a protected heritage monument due to its historical and cultural importance.

The demonstration on NH-326 caused partial disruption of traffic with many local residents joining the protest in solidarity. The Forum has warned that if authorities fail to act swiftly the agitation will intensify in the coming days.