India, July 31 -- Movement of heavy vehicles is banned over five structurally unsafe bridges and two culverts across key routes in Raigad district, following a structural audit that revealed the bridges had dangerously low load-bearing capacities, ranging from just 5 to 16 tonnes.

The affected bridges lie on the Alibag-Roha route, as well as those on the Alibag-Revdanda, Poynad-Usar-Bhadane, and Bhakarwad-Dehen roads.

District collector Kishan Jawale issued the order on Wednesday, which took immediate effect, citing public safety concerns. The ongoing monsoon season has worsened the condition of these structures.

The closed bridges include the Ramraj and Sudkoli bridges along Alibag-Roha road (SH-91), two slab culverts along the road, ...