The demand for a new bridge connecting Cuttack City to Choudwar has intensified, with locals raising serious concerns over the crumbling condition of the existing bridge on the Jobra Anicut Barrage over the Mahanadi River.
The 1.9 km bridge, opened to the public in 1990, has fallen into severe disrepair due to alleged administrative neglect. Over the years, cracks have developed across the structure, and the road surface has significantly degraded.
Now over 25 years old, the bridge’s condition has worsened, with large cracks appearing at several joints and sidewalls crumbling. Exposed reinforcement rods further highlight the structural damage.
“This bridge is critical as it connects to SCB Medical College and Hospital. The cracks are alarming, and while urgent repairs are necessary, a new parallel bridge is the long-term solution,” a Cuttack resident urged.
Despite being vital for both flood control and daily transportation, the bridge is under constant pressure from continuous vehicular traffic—excluding heavy vehicles. Poor maintenance has increased the risk of a potential disaster, prompting strong public calls for both repairs and a new bridge.
