* The bridge under construction collapsed into the Ganges. (AFP/Getty/CNN)
A four-lane concrete bridge under construction over the Ganges in the Indian state of Bihar has collapsed for the second time in just over a year, again raising questions about the quality of its construction construction.
Video shows the 3 kilometer (1.8 mile) long bridge crashing dramatically into the river on Sunday, sending a plume of debris and dust skyward and waves rippling over the holy river.
The Sultanganj Bridge has collapsed twice since construction began in 2017, the first time in April last year before Sunday’s catastrophic failure. It is unclear why the bridge collapsed last year or if the problem has been repaired.
Crowds by the river can be seen filming the bridge and screaming as it collapses. CNN was unable to confirm reports of injuries.
On Monday, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said he had ordered an investigation into the incident.
In a statement on Monday, the Canadian design and engineering firm behind the bridge, McElhanney, is aware of the “partial collapse” of the bridge and is “deeply concerned” for the safety and well-being of those affected by the disaster. ‘incident.
The company “will cooperate with any investigation,” the statement added.
CNN contacted SP Singla Constructions, which is building the bridge, but did not immediately respond.
According to McElhanney, the bridge was to include four carriageways and pathways, providing “important new connections across the Ganges”.
It is also expected to reduce congestion on the state’s three existing highway bridges, the company said on its website.
The Sultanganj Bridge is not the only one to collapse in India in the past year. Last October, a suspension bridge collapsed in the town of Morbi in Gujarat, killing 135 people. (CNN/Ed.)
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