Nawal Kishor Choudhary

Following the Vikramshila Setu's partial collapse, the Bhagalpur district administration has established vital boat and ferry services across the Ganga, acting as a crucial lifeline for commuters and small vendors. Large cargo vessels are also ferrying essential materials and vehicles, ensuring continued trade and movement. Strict monitoring of these waterway operations is in place to prevent violations.

In a catastrophic turn of events, Bhagalpur has been battered by a severe cyclonic storm, resulting in the tragic loss of five lives and leaving two individuals unaccounted for. The storm's ferocious winds, peaking at 140 km/h, have torn trees from their roots and laid waste to power lines, plunging the region into darkness and halting transportation systems.

In Bhagalpur, efforts to reconnect the community are underway as teams from BRO and MES quickly assemble a temporary Bailey bridge across the Ganga river. Spanning 50 meters, this vital structure is designed to facilitate light vehicle passage over the damaged section of Vikramshila Setu, which experienced a collapse on May 4.

Following the Vikramshila Setu's RCC slab collapse, Bhagalpur administration has set new fares for cargo vessels and ferries. Fourteen additional cargo vessels and eight ferries are being deployed to ease passenger and goods movement across the Ganga. These services will help daily commuters, traders, and transport vehicles, with ambulances receiving free passage.

In the wake of the Vikramshila Setu slab's unfortunate collapse, the community kitchens run by the hardworking Jeevika Didis at Barari Ghat have become a lifeline for many. Offering nutritious options like Rs 50 thalis and Rs 20 litti-chokha, these kitchens are a beacon of hope for stranded travelers and daily laborers.

In a significant setback, part of the Vikramshila Setu in Bhagalpur crumbled, leading to an immediate response from structural engineers at BRO, IIT Patna, and local authorities. Aerial drone surveys are currently in progress to evaluate the extent of the damage as plans are underway for a provisional Bailey bridge suitable for light traffic.

In a shocking incident, a 30-meter section of the Vikramshila Setu in Bhagalpur has given way, cutting off vital access routes. Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary has initiated an investigation and has taken immediate action against an engineer due to oversight. To mitigate the disruption, he has promised to provide alternative transport options, including a complimentary steamer service.

Chief minister Nitish Kumar on Friday announced he would ask the people of the state to assemble at Gandhi Maidan here so that they could chalk out the future strategy over the demand for special category status to Bihar.

NHAI clarified that the Vikramshila Setu bridge is completely safe, refuting rumors of damage. A temporary construction ring around a pillar collapsed due to rusting, not structural failure. Experts have confirmed the bridge's integrity, urging the public to avoid panic.

Renowned economist Nawal Kishore Choudhary has described demonetisation as a correct but small step towards flushing out black money.

Professors from different universities, activists, social workers and students from different parts of the country have come together to build a unique website www.pheku.in which targets Gujarat CM Narendra Modi for his 'phek' (hyperboles) regarding the growth model of Gujarat.