The Chhattisgarh High Court has pulled up the State authorities over the “pathetic” and “dangerously neglected” condition of a crucial bridge over the Maniyari River on the Mungeli-Bilaspur road. Taking Suo Motu cognizance of a news report published in Haribhoomi on March 28, 2025, the Court registered a Public Interest Litigation (WPPIL No. 40 of 2025), seeking accountability and immediate action.
The Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Ravindra Kumar Agrawal issued stern directions to the State Government, expressing concern that “it appears that the authorities are waiting only for occurrence of any mishappening.”
Background of the Case
The PIL stems from a front-page report titled “Jarjar Pool Par Maut Bankar Daud Rahe Bhari Vahan” highlighting the alarming condition of the bridge. Accompanying photographs showed deep ditches on both sides of the bridge and extensive waterlogging due to a leaking water pipeline laid across it.
According to the news item, heavy traffic—including trucks and buses—frequently plies this narrow and dilapidated bridge, causing daily traffic snarls. It also referred to a fatal accident involving a student last year, which occurred due to these poor road conditions.
Despite repeated complaints by the locals and public officials, including statements from the Chairman of Nagar Panchayat, Barela, and the Chief Municipal Officer, no effective remedial measures were initiated.
Important Legal Issues and Questions Raised
- Government Inaction Despite Foreseeable Risk: Why have no timely repairs been undertaken despite daily use by officials themselves?
- Public Safety vs Administrative Apathy: Is the State waiting for more lives to be lost before acting?
- Accountability and Use of Public Funds: How much has been spent on the bridge’s repair since its construction?
- Compensation to Victims: Have any victims of bridge-related accidents received compensation?
Court’s Directions and Observations
In a strongly worded order, the Bench observed:
“It is very surprising that despite the said bridge situated on the main road connecting Bilaspur and Mungeli, yet no action is being taken… Had the authorities taken timely action, the condition of the bridge would not have worsened… The more delay is caused in its repair, the cost of the repair will be higher which has to be borne by the State exchequer.”
The Court emphasized that almost all departmental officers cross the bridge daily and are well aware of its dangers, yet no urgency has been shown.
Accordingly, the Bench directed the Secretary, Public Works Department, Government of Chhattisgarh, to file a personal affidavit answering:
- How long this dangerous situation has persisted?
- What actions, if any, have been taken for repair?
- How much money has been spent on repairs since the bridge was constructed?
- Whether any compensation has been paid to victims of accidents?
The matter has been listed for further hearing on April 15, 2025.
The petition, though initiated Suo Motu by the Court, effectively makes the State of Chhattisgarh (through the Chief Secretary) and several departments—including Public Works, Public Health Engineering, and Bilaspur District authorities—accountable respondents.
