The Public Works Department (PWD) of Tripura has dismissed circulating claims about the collapse of a bridge over the Manu River, calling them misleading and incorrect.

Speaking at a press briefing held at the state Secretariat, PWD Secretary Kiran Gitte clarified that the main bridge structure remains intact. He emphasized that the department consistently upholds strict construction standards and ensures regular monitoring by engineers to maintain safety and quality.

The clarification follows widespread reports suggesting that the under-construction bridge connecting Sonamura and Teliya Chhara in Kumarghat had collapsed. Gitte explained that the project, spanning 140 meters and designed with four sections, has been in progress for approximately three years. Three of the four spans, each measuring 35 meters, have already been completed, while construction of the central span is still underway.

According to him, only the temporary shuttering and centering structures used during construction were affected. These provisional supports, recently set up for the remaining span, were damaged due to repeated Kalbaishakhi storms that caused a sharp rise in the river’s water level.

“The visuals being shared are of the damaged temporary framework, not the bridge itself,” Gitte stated, reiterating that the primary structure has not suffered any collapse.

He also urged the public and media to avoid spreading unverified information, noting that such misinformation can lead to unnecessary concern. The state government is currently overseeing the construction of over 50 bridges across different locations.

Senior officials, including Chief Engineer (Roads & Bridges) Rajib Majumdar, were present during the briefing.

The PWD has appealed for responsible reporting and fact-checking to prevent confusion among citizens.