The Department of Surface Transport’s regional office in Lingmithang, Monggar says the Kuri-Gongri confluence bailey bridge had collapsed because of overloading and speeding of the dumper truck. It was found that the truck carried an extra weight of around 10 metric tonnes beyond the bridge’s gross carrying capacity of 25 metric tonnes.
The maintenance and inspection of the bridge were done recently according to the office’s chief engineer. He said the case will be forwarded to the court.
The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon when the truck was ferrying soil across the river for the construction of a riverbank protection site nearby. The driver escaped unhurt.
Meanwhile, the chief engineer said the office will start arranging the materials for the reconstruction of the bridge tomorrow. Materials are expected to reach the site within three days.
Thinley Dorji, Pema Gatshel
Edited by Kipchu
