The Hindu : Front Page : Repair work on bridge across Amaravathy river to start soon

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Tuesday, Jan 01, 2008
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Repair work on bridge across Amaravathy river to start soon

L. Renganathan

Damaged portion remained neglected so far
The structure suffered extensive damage two years ago

KARUR: The State Government has announced that repair work will be carried out to the damaged new bridge across Amaravathy river in the town.

The work is expected to begin in another fortnight, according to Highways Minister Vellakoil M.P. Swaminathan.

The bridge, the first in the State to be constructed under build-operate-transfer mode, suffered extensive damage two years ago, after flash floods in the river pulled down a portion of the approach road.

Damage to southern side

On the night of November 11, 2005, huge quantity of water, assessed to be more than 2.5 lakh cusecs, damaged the southern side or the Thirumanilayur side of the bridge.

A portion of the approach road caved in and cracks developed across the road width forcing the authorities to halt traffic and clear people.

The cracks widened as the night lengthened.

Immediately after the damage, the then AIADMK regime ordered a probe alleging that some irregularities were committed in awarding the BOT order to a particular firm stating it as a reason for poor construction and subsequent damage to the bridge.

The damaged portion remained neglected so far, but for the strengthening and supporting efforts at select spots.

Mr. Swaminathan, during his recent visit to the town on Sunday, said that the State Government was seized of the matter and had directed the officials to begin repair work at the new Amaravathy bridge within a fortnight.

This has brought relief to the commuters and townsmen who hail the move as “delayed but nevertheless good.”

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