Public Outcry Over Bridge Designs

Madhya Pradesh’s Public Works Department (PWD) faced significant backlash after unveiling bridge designs featuring two 90-degree turns in Indore and a flyover in Bhopal that resembled an origami experiment. The unusual designs sparked public criticism, prompting the PWD to reconsider its approach.

Initial Decision and Reversal

Initially, the PWD issued a circular halting 355 projects, including 140 under-construction flyovers, railway overbridges (ROBs), and elevated corridors valued at Rs 1,200 crores. However, this decision was quickly revoked. Chief Engineer PC Verma clarified that the cancellation order was a mistake, emphasizing that no projects were actually stopped. Instead, the department aims to enhance quality control and technical oversight.

Formation of a High-Level Technical Committee

In response to the controversy, a high-level technical committee was established to scrutinize all existing and under-construction flyovers and railway overbridges. This panel will evaluate every aspect of the projects, from design and alignment to safety norms. The committee includes PWD’s Chief Engineers for Buildings and Roads, Setu Parikshetra, MPRDC’s Chief Engineer, and officials from the Railway and Municipal Corporation. External experts may also be consulted.

Mandated Exams for Engineers

To ensure improved project outcomes, the government has mandated departmental exams for engineers. Executive Engineers, Assistant Engineers (AEs), and Sub-Engineers must take these tests after August 15, with future postings contingent on their scores. Additionally, a Technical Advisor from MPRDC will work with the Indian Academy for Highway Engineering to develop a training module focusing on Indian Roads Congress (IRC) codes and Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) guidelines.

Accountability Measures

Two weeks prior, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav ordered disciplinary action against those responsible for the flawed Aishbagh ROB in Bhopal. Eight engineers, including two Chief Engineers, were suspended, and a departmental inquiry is underway against a retired Superintending Engineer. The construction agency and design consultant involved have been blacklisted, with corrections required before the bridge’s inauguration.