PWD, a divided house over bridge renovation near Pandoh
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Residents had alleged irregularities in renovation, maintenance of Jagar Pul on Beas river
The Newz Radar
Mandi : Two branches of Himachal’s Public Works Department, mechanical and civil, are at odds with each other over responsibilities due to allegations by residents regarding irregularities in the renovation and maintenance of the footbridge commonly known as the “Jagar Pul” over the Beas River near Pandoh, covering a span of nine miles.
TNR had earlier reported about residents alleging widespread irregularities in the bridge’s renovation by the mechanical wing, accusing it of favoritism towards contractors. They demanded an independent inquiry into the renovation process.
The maintenance of this bridge falls under the jurisdiction of the mechanical wing of the Public Works Department. However, the mechanical wing tried to shift the blame to the civil wing, asserting that it was their responsibility to complete the civil work.
When contacted, J L Thakur, XEN mechanical wing, said that the mechanical wing only undertakes tasks assigned by the civil wing. He said, “The design and maintenance of the Jagar Pul were carried out based on provided specifications, and oversight of its maintenance falls under the jurisdiction of the relevant division.”
Vinod Sharma, XEN Thalout division, civil wing, Public Works Department, clarified that the civil works associated with tasks were also performed by the mechanical wing. He added, “The construction of the Pandoh suspension bridge was also completed by the mechanical wing.”
Narendra Chauhan, Chief Engineer of the Public Works Department, Mandi zone, highlighted the necessity of coordination between the two wings, being part of the same department, while talking to TNR. He assured that concerns raised by the public regarding irregularities in the bridge’s renovation would be thoroughly investigated.
An amount of Rs 16,000 has been spent on maintaining the bridge, but only the steel structure was replaced with no repairs made to the old concrete foundation. Even the railings on the sides of the bridge have drawn criticism from commuters who demand an increase from the current two feet to at least three feet to prevent accidents.
