Dilapidated bridge at Thirupparaithurai worries road users

A section of residents is concerned over the safety of motorists and commuters travelling over a poorly maintained 46-year-old bridge at Thirupparaithurai in Tiruchi

A section of residents is concerned over the safety of motorists and commuters travelling over a poorly maintained 46-year-old bridge at Thirupparaithurai in Tiruchi. 

The bridge across the Ramavathalai Vaikal is a crucial link for the residents of Thirupparaithurai. Many residents crossing over to residential areas as well as devotees travelling to the Thirumanjana bathing ghats often cross over the weak bridge. 

The bridge lacks any guardrails to prevent accidents among motorists and commuters. The underside of the bridge appears badly damaged. The concrete bracing on the underside has chipped away leaving the beams exposed to the elements. The bridge vibrates whenever a vehicle passes over it. “The bridge is a vital link for many of the residents and devotees who cross over the Ramavathalai vaikal. We are worried it is very old and in a deteriorated condition, said K. Thangaraj, a retired IAF officer. 

A senior official from the Rural Development Department told The Hindu that the bridge would be renovated as soon as the funds were released.