AJP Seeks Probe into Bridge Projects Awarded to SPS Group; Flags Safety Concerns
On February 18, 2026, the Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP), an opposition party in Assam, raised serious concerns regarding the safety and transparency of bridge projects awarded to the Haryana-based SPS Construction India Pvt. Ltd. The party’s leader, Jagadish Bhuyan, emphasized the need for an independent investigation into these projects, particularly in light of recent structural issues reported in the newly inaugurated Kumar Bhaskar Varma Bridge.
Concerns Over the Kumar Bhaskar Varma Bridge
The Kumar Bhaskar Varma Bridge, which spans the Brahmaputra River and connects Guwahati with North Guwahati, was inaugurated recently at a cost of Rs 3,000 crore. However, shortly after its inauguration, reports emerged indicating the presence of cracks in various parts of the bridge. This has raised public apprehension about the structure’s integrity and safety.
Allegations Against SPS Construction India Pvt. Ltd.
During a press conference held at Zoo Road in Guwahati, Bhuyan pointed out that SPS Construction India Pvt. Ltd. has been linked to several controversies in other states. He cited instances of bridge collapses associated with the company, including incidents in Bihar where the Sultanganj–Aguwani bridge over the Ganga reportedly collapsed multiple times, resulting in loss of life. These allegations have led to calls for a thorough examination of the company’s track record before awarding further projects in Assam.
Timing of the Bridge Inauguration
Bhuyan also questioned the timing of the Kumar Bhaskar Varma Bridge’s inauguration, particularly given that expert institutions like IIT Guwahati and IIT Roorkee were reportedly conducting technical evaluations of the bridge at the time. He expressed concern over the decision to open the bridge to the public before the completion of these evaluations, stating, “Transparency and accountability are essential in public projects.”
Demands for Independent Inquiry
The AJP has formally demanded an independent inquiry into the safety of all bridges constructed or currently under construction by SPS Construction India in Assam. Bhuyan stated, “We support development, but quality and safety should never be compromised. There must be strict monitoring and third-party evaluation.”
Recent Incidents Highlighting Safety Concerns
In addition to the issues surrounding the Kumar Bhaskar Varma Bridge, Bhuyan referred to several recent incidents of bridge collapses across India that underscore the need for stringent safety measures. These include:
- A bridge collapse at Lohia Chowk in Patna, resulting in three fatalities.
- Railings falling from another structure on Bailey Road in Patna.
- An under-construction bridge collapse in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.
These incidents highlight the critical need for rigorous scrutiny and monitoring of infrastructure projects.
Concerns Over Awarding Projects to Controversial Companies
Bhuyan further criticized the government for repeatedly awarding projects to companies with controversial records. He cited the Majuli–Jorhat bridge project, which was initially handed to another agency that failed to complete the work and is now being managed by the Singla Group. He urged the government to clarify why such companies continue to receive contracts for critical infrastructure projects.
Response from SPS Construction India Pvt. Ltd.
In response to the allegations, Rohit Singla, a director at SPS Construction India, defended the Kumar Bhaskar Varma Bridge project. He explained that the bridge was constructed using a modern extradosed design, which differs from traditional suspension models. According to Singla, this design offers enhanced strength and durability while allowing for faster construction across the wide span of the Brahmaputra River. He emphasized that the Kumar Bhaskar Varma Bridge is the first extradosed bridge in Northeast India, and he expressed confidence in the long-term value the infrastructure will provide to residents and businesses in the region.
Conclusion
The AJP’s call for an independent inquiry into the bridge projects awarded to SPS Construction India reflects growing public concerns regarding safety and accountability in infrastructure development. As the situation unfolds, it remains crucial for the government to address these issues transparently and ensure that the safety of citizens is prioritized in all construction projects.
Note: The information presented in this article is based on reports and statements made by various parties involved in the discussion surrounding the bridge projects in Assam.
