Truck falls into Turag river after collapse of Bailey bridge

A truck plunged into the Turag river after a Bailey bridge, which connects Dhaka's Abdullahpur with Gazipur's Tongi, collapsed early Saturday.

Eyewitnesses and local sources confirmed that the bridge suddenly gave way around 3:00am while a truck belonging to the Abul Khair Group was crossing it. However, no casualties were reported. 

Police have said steps will be taken following the investigation. Traffic movement over the bridge has remained suspended, and the Gazipur Metropolitan Police have asked vehicle drivers to use the Kamarpara-Munnugate road and BRT flyover.

Gazipur Roads and Highways Department Engineer Khandaker Shariful Alam said, "This bailey bridge was initially constructed in 2022 as a temporary structure during the construction of the larger bridge. Since the main bridge has been completed, the Bailey bridge is no longer essential."

However, a warning sign was installed earlier, indicating the bridge's risky condition, the engineer said adding that plans are now underway to remove the broken bridge from the river and rebuild it.