Bhubaneswar, June 13 -- Hundreds of passengers narrowly escaped a mishap after a crack reportedly developed on the elephant corridor flyover bridge on NH-55 near Rairakhol in Odisha's Sambalpur district on Friday night.

The issue triggered public resentment after the contracting agency allegedly carried out repairs on the damaged portion overnight without the presence of any technical expert. Questions are now being raised over the quality and safety of the structure.

Vehicular movement on the flyover commenced only six months ago. According to reports, the elephant corridor itself was created nearly a year ago. The rapid deterioration of the structure within such a short period has drawn criticism from various quarters.

Alleging that ...