Indore’s ₹6 Crore Malwa Mill Bridge Floods Within 36 Hours of Inauguration, Raising Quality Concerns

Indore, October 5:
In a striking example of poor planning and construction oversight, the newly constructed Malwa Mill Bridge in Indore, built at a cost of approximately ₹6 crore, was submerged in water just 36 hours after its grand inauguration. The first spell of rain was enough to expose serious flaws in the bridge’s design and execution, sparking criticism from local residents and commuters alike.

Rain Exposes Structural Flaws

The Patnipura side of the bridge was left underwater following the downpour, leading to severe inconvenience for motorists. Commuters reported bumpy rides and skidding vehicles, with many pointing out that the bridge slab is nearly 3 inches lower than the adjoining road surface, creating uneven patches that could lead to accidents.

Drainage System Under Scrutiny

Local reports suggest that the drainage system was either poorly planned or not installed properly during construction, resulting in water accumulating on the bridge surface. Residents say that silt, sand, and gravel are still scattered on the bridge, which adds to the danger during rains.

Manoj Somvanshi, a local trader, highlighted the incomplete cleanup of construction materials, while Rajesh Mehra, a nearby resident, criticized the lack of slope alignment between the bridge and the road, calling it a design failure.

Civic Claims Fall Flat

During the bridge’s inauguration, the Indore Municipal Corporation claimed that it would ease traffic congestion between AB Road and Atal Dwar Road. However, the first rainfall not only stalled traffic but also raised questions about the project’s quality assurance processes.

Images of the partially submerged bridge and incomplete construction work have gone viral on social media, with citizens calling out the civic body for negligence and mismanagement.

Public Demands Action

Local residents and businesses are now urging authorities to repair the road levels, improve drainage systems, and complete pending construction before the monsoon intensifies. The incident has turned into a symbol of infrastructure apathy, triggering public outrage and demands for accountability.