In recent weeks, Bihar has witnessed a disturbing trend with multiple bridge collapses across various districts, sparking widespread concern over infrastructure safety and disaster preparedness in the state. The issue has escalated to the Supreme Court through a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by advocate Brajesh Singh, highlighting the urgent need for action.

The PIL underscores the critical nature of the situation, particularly in a state like Bihar, which experiences extensive flooding during the monsoon season. With 73.06% of its total geographical area prone to floods, the safety of bridges becomes paramount as they are vital lifelines for transportation and connectivity.

The petitioner has called for a comprehensive structural audit of all existing and under-construction bridges in Bihar. This audit aims to identify weaknesses that could compromise bridge integrity, leading to potential collapses. Moreover, the petition advocates for the formation of a high-level expert committee tasked with continuous monitoring and maintenance of bridge health.

Central to the petition's demands is the implementation of real-time monitoring systems aligned with the standards set by the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. Such monitoring would ensure that bridges are regularly assessed and any deterioration or structural issues are promptly addressed, thus mitigating risks to public safety.

In response to the escalating crisis, Bihar's Chief Minister, Nitish Kumar, has directed state departments to conduct surveys on old bridges and prioritize repairs where necessary. However, the PIL stresses the need for a more systematic approach, including legislative or executive measures to establish a permanent body overseeing bridge safety across Bihar.

The Supreme Court's intervention is sought not only to prevent future bridge collapses but also to safeguard the lives and livelihoods of Bihar's residents. The outcome of this petition could potentially set a precedent for bridge safety protocols nationwide, emphasizing proactive measures in infrastructure management and disaster resilience.

As debates continue on the causes of the recent collapses, including possible impacts of heavy rainfall, the PIL serves as a poignant reminder of the critical need for robust infrastructure planning and maintenance in flood-prone regions like Bihar. It underscores the imperative of bridging gaps in safety protocols to ensure that infrastructure remains resilient in the face of natural disasters.

This comprehensive approach, advocated in the PIL, aims to transform Bihar's infrastructure management from reactive to proactive, setting a benchmark for bridge safety and disaster preparedness in India.