Bridge Collapse in Banjar on NH 305 : Community Comes Together

Last night, the Mangalur Bridge on NH 305, which connects the Banjar subdivision, completely collapsed. A truck loaded with cement was crossing the bridge when it suddenly gave way, causing the truck to plunge into the ravine below. Thankfully, the truck driver escaped without injury.

The collapse has caused significant disruption, leading to long traffic jams on both sides of the road. Tourists heading to Banjar for the weekend are also stranded. In this challenging situation, local residents are stepping up to help people cross the ravine. The SDM of Banjar arrived at the scene promptly, and discussions are underway to construct an alternative bridge. Built around 1970, this bridge is the only road link between Aut and Banjar, and there is no alternative route. Constructing a temporary bridge may take some time, and heavy traffic has been jammed since morning, causing inconvenience to many.

This road is a crucial link, connecting Aut, Banjar, Jalori Pass, and extending to Ani and Rampur. Now, people will have to cross the ravine to travel, while hundreds of vehicles remain stuck on both sides. Banjar MLA Surender Shourie stated, “Upon receiving the news of the bridge collapse, I contacted the administration and issued instructions for arranging an alternative bridge.”

Police Advisory

The Banjar police have issued an advisory: “This is the only bridge connecting Aut to Banjar. People planning to travel in this direction should postpone their journey for some time. As soon as an alternative bridge is arranged, vehicular movement will resume.”