Karnataka Bridge Collapse Disrupts Cargo, Raises Safety Concerns

The collapse of the 40-year-old Kali River bridge in Karwar, Karnataka, has caused significant disruptions and safety concerns. The bridge, which connected Karnataka and Goa, gave way early on August 7, causing a truck driven by Bala Murugan to fall into the river; he was rescued and is in stable condition. The collapse has halted cargo movement to Goa, impacting the local economy and raising questions about the stability of nearby bridges. The National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) and local authorities are under pressure to conduct immediate safety audits of the new bridge and other structures in the region. Environmental groups have also called for a safety audit of dams following recent floods, highlighting broader infrastructural vulnerabilities in the area. The incident underscores the urgent need for improved infrastructure maintenance and oversight to prevent such disasters in the future.