Bhopal’s 90-Degree Bridge Sparks Outrage, Memes, and Government Action

A newly constructed overbridge in Bhopal has recently gone viral—and not for the right reasons. Built at a cost of ₹18 crore and measuring 648 meters in length, the Aishbagh railway overbridge has drawn national attention for its bizarre design featuring a sudden 90-degree turn. Images of the sharp bend have flooded social media, drawing criticism, jokes, and serious safety concerns.




🚧 Public Reaction and Safety Fears

Residents and commuters have raised alarms over the abrupt turn, calling it dangerous for both two-wheelers and four-wheelers. Locals fear the possibility of accidents, especially at night or during peak traffic. Experts in road safety say the turn violates basic design principles, lacking proper radius and visibility. The absence of clear warning signs and safe turning space further escalates the risk.


📱 Viral Sensation and Online Mockery

Once photos of the sharp curve began circulating online, the bridge quickly became a meme magnet. Social media users compared it to video game levels and unrealistic architectural stunts. Some even joked it was India’s new “Wonder of the World” or a live example of geometry gone wrong. What started as humor quickly turned into public pressure on officials to fix the issue.


⚙️ Government Response and Fixes

Facing massive backlash, the Madhya Pradesh government acted quickly. Seven engineers from the Public Works Department were suspended, and the construction agency and design consultant were blacklisted. A joint committee involving the Railways, PWD, and NHAI was set up to suggest redesign improvements.

To address the flaw, engineers are now softening the sharp angle by modifying the road structure without demolishing the entire bridge. Plans include increasing the road width, improving the curvature, and adding proper signage and dividers to enhance safety.


🧱 How Did This Happen?

Officials blame limited space and constraints around the railway track for the awkward design. Initially, a curved plan was proposed, but adjustments by the railway authorities reportedly led to the sharp turn. Poor coordination and lack of proper review across departments appear to have contributed to the oversight.


✅ What’s Next?

Authorities have promised not to open the bridge until all safety upgrades are completed. Modifications are underway to create a smoother turn, install safety signs, and ensure better traffic management. The situation also sparked discussions on the importance of inter-departmental planning and public accountability in infrastructure projects.


Conclusion:
What was intended to be a helpful overpass turned into a national joke—but it also led to swift government action. The Bhopal bridge incident serves as a reminder that infrastructure must be planned with precision, public safety, and long-term use in mind. It also proves the power of public voice and social media in holding decision-makers accountable.

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