Two years on, Munneru suspension bridge remains incomplete amid payment concerns

Khammam: The launch of the suspension bridge under construction across the River Munneru in Khammam city has been facing delays even after two years have elapsed since the works commenced.

It might be recalled that the idea of constructing the suspension bridge was mooted during the tenure of the previous BRS government as the existing British-era bridge had reached its centenary and had become somewhat structurally weak.

Former Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao during a public meeting here in January 2023, assured that funds would be sanctioned for the bridge and issued orders in the same month granting administrative approval for Rs 180 crore for its construction.

The then Municipal Administration Minister KT Rama Rao laid the foundation stone for the project. Actual construction work commenced in April 2024. Although the initial deadline for the completion of the project was set for June 2026, it was subsequently extended to September 2026. However, the work remained incomplete even after that deadline had passed.

There are reports that the contracting agency is now requesting an additional four-month extension. Officials overseeing the project have indicated that the bridge could be opened to the public next year. Opposition parties alleged that the work was delayed as the government had delayed paying compensation to those who lost their lands and homes for the project.

BJP district president Nelluri Koteswara Rao demanded to know why no penalties have been imposed on the contractor, in accordance with the rules, for failing to complete the project even though the stipulated deadline has long since passed.

He said the work was being delayed as bills worth around Rs 120 crore were pending clearance by the government and demanded an immediate clarification from the government on this matter. He further alleged that authorities concerned are not monitoring the works regularly.

Spanning a total length of 1.25 km, the structure is being built to accommodate four lanes of traffic and is supported by two massive pillars. The main cable-stayed bridge section covers approximately 300 metres, while the remainder consists of viaducts and connecting roads.