Vigilance Inquiry Demanded Over Kozhikode’s Thorayikadavu Bridge Collapse

Rapid Summary

• The Kerala Students Union (KSU) has called for a Vigilance investigation into the collapse of a bridge under construction at Thorayikadavu near Koyilandy, Kozhikode.
• A formal petition was filed by KSU State committee member A.K. Janib with the Vigilance adn Anti-Corruption Bureau.
• KSU leaders allege that Public Works Department (PWD) officials have shown favoritism toward the private contractor handling the project.
• The supervising teams under the Kerala Road Fund Board (KRFB) were also accused of failing in their responsibilities.
• The incident occurred on August 14, 2025, when part of a beam collapsed during construction; no injuries were reported.
• Preliminary investigation findings have been submitted to minister for Public Works P.A. Mohamed Riyas, who stated that action would follow based on the KRFB report.
• Construction began in August 2023 with a planned length of 265 meters; its purpose was to connect Balussery and koyilandy Assembly constituencies where residents currently rely on country boats for transport.
• Local residents expressed shock over the collapse and demanded accountability from contractors.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The collapse of the Thorayikadavu bridge raises serious questions about governance, accountability, and public safety in infrastructure projects within Kerala. Allegations against PWD officials reveal potential operational lapses while highlighting systemic issues around monitoring large-scale projects executed through public-private partnerships.

Given its strategic importance as a vital link between two Assembly constituencies and rural communities relying heavily on waterway transport, delays caused by this failure could significantly impact connectivity efforts in these regions.

The government’s commitment to taking action based on investigatory findings is crucial but must be coupled with clear interaction to address public concerns effectively while ensuring such incidents are not repeated elsewhere in future infrastructural developments.

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