An audit of the Srisailam road bridge—an over 50-year-old structure spanning the Krishna River between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana—has commenced amid growing concerns over its structural integrity.

Authorities from the Roads & Buildings (R&B) Department and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) conducted a detailed inspection over the weekend following reports of significant vibrations when heavy vehicles traverse the bridge. Engineering teams carried out load tests, including the movement of a tipper truck across the span with varying weights, to monitor the bridge’s response.

Vibration data was also recorded using a crane-mounted device placed under the bridge. The data has been sent for scientific analysis to evaluate the current load-bearing capacity and assess the risk of structural failure.

Built in 1972, the 530-metre-long bridge on National Highway 765 connects Hyderabad, Kalwakurthy, Srisailam, Dornala, and Tokapalle. Although designed with a 50-year lifespan, the bridge continues to serve as a vital transport link despite visible signs of deterioration, including cracked footpaths, damaged railings, and peeling concrete beneath the structure.

Temporary retaining walls have been installed in certain areas to prevent accidents. However, experts estimate that urgent repairs could cost around Rs 70 crore. Proposals for a new bridge have been under consideration for the last three to four years, but no final decision has been made.

As a precautionary step, authorities are also gathering structural data from other major bridges in the region to assess the need for repairs.

A senior R&B official in Kurnool said, “The inspection report is expected within a week. Based on the findings, we will either initiate immediate repairs or escalate the proposal for a new bridge to the state government.”

New source: Deccan Chronicle