Precariously standing above the Kharicut canal in Vatva-GIDC Machhunagar, a 1994-built bridge in Ahmedabad is another catastrophe in the making. Despite a warning sign that reads, “The culvert is dangerous. Heavy vehicles should not commute.” at least 50,000 vehicles continue to rumble across its tattering surface. Residents fear the bridge could collapse at any moment, that can potentially kill hundreds of people.
The bridge, built by Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) three decades back connects busy city areas like Narol, Vatva gam, Vatva-GIDC, Odhav, and critical arteries like Narol, Vatva, Vatva GIDC, Sardar Patel Ring Road, and Ramol Express Highway. Concerned citizens have called upon the AMC to take immediate action, directing their pleas to the AMC Chief. However, AMC appears to be stalling, hoping that the burden will fall on the GIDC Association’s shoulders. But the residents argue that just because it intersects with GIDC territory doesn’t mean the civic body can shirk its responsibility. They demand the AMC take charge of this bridge’s repair or reconstruction.
Time is the essence. The residents insist that the tender be expedited, and the bridge be rebuilt without delay, in the interest of public safety. Their complaints have reached the Chief Minister’s office, as well as former Municipal Councilor Atul Ravji Patel, who has been briefed on the matter.
People say chemical-laden water seeps from the bridge, and during heavy rains, this hazardous flow spills onto the road. Heavy vehicles continue to traverse this bridge. The bridge poses a significant threat to the community, especially during rush hours.
Sources within the AMC pointed out, “This matter falls under the jurisdiction of the Vatva Industrial Association. Of the total taxes collected from this area, 75% is funneled back to the Vatva Industrial Association, which maintains all internal drainage lines.”
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