Engineering Blunder or Safety Nightmare? Bhopal’s ₹18 Crore Rail Bridge Faces Public Backlash Over 90-Degree Turn
Bhopal, July 7, 2025 —
A newly constructed rail-over-bridge near Aishbagh Stadium in Bhopal has become the center of a public safety storm, after viral videos and images revealed a dangerously sharp 90-degree turn on the stretch. Built at a cost of ₹18 crore, the bridge — which took nearly a decade to complete — is now drawing intense scrutiny for what citizens are calling an engineering blunder.
Local commuters, transport experts, and civic groups have criticized the lack of foresight and basic traffic planning, warning that the turn poses a high risk of accidents, especially for two-wheelers and heavy vehicles.
“This isn’t just a design flaw — it’s a disaster waiting to happen. One missed brake or late turn and lives will be lost,” said a concerned resident who travels the stretch daily.
Despite being newly opened, the bridge reportedly lacks proper road signage, lighting, and speed breakers, further compounding the safety risks. Footage of vehicles struggling to maneuver the tight curve has gone viral on social media, triggering outrage and memes — but also serious demands for accountability.
Citizens have formally appealed for:
An immediate safety audit by independent engineering experts
Installation of warning signs and reflectors
Speed reduction measures, including speed bumps and rumble strips
Adequate street lighting, especially at the curve
Bhopal’s municipal officials have acknowledged the complaints and stated that a review is underway. However, activists argue that post-construction fixes are no substitute for proper design.
“After 10 years and ₹18 crore, how did we end up with a bridge that threatens lives instead of saving them?” asked a local urban planner.
