Bridge Collapse in Anakapalle: 15 Villages Are in Trouble
Bodderu River bridge weakened by sand mining, floods; villagers block it for safety
Visakhapatnam: A key bridge over the Bodderu River in Anakapalle, near Kattuvani Agraharam in Cheedikada mandal, has collapsed. This incident has halted traffic and isolated nearly 15 villages across Cheedikada and Butchayyapeta mandals. The collapse was caused by the failure of a supporting pillar, which led to the bridge sagging dangerously and left it in a dangerous state.
Local residents are concerned that the structure could collapse entirely at any moment. They believe the damage is due to unchecked sand transportation from the Bodderu River using carts, along with the frequent movement of vehicles that exceed the bridge’s weight limit. Recent heavy rains and high floodwaters have further weakened the foundation, hastening the collapse.
The bridge, built in 2011 through a joint effort by Visakha Dairy and local dairy farmers, has long served as a vital link for the surrounding communities. In response to this emergency, dairy farmers have blocked both ends of the bridge to prevent any movement and ensure public safety.
When Deccan Chronicle sought official clarification, authorities confirmed that the bridge connecting K.V. Agraharam to Vijayaramaraju Peta has been closed. The disruption has affected access to K.V. Agraharam, Dandi Suravaram, and Dibbapalem villages. Residents from these areas are now forced to take longer detours via Tunivalasa and Varahapuram.