Topic– Disaster and disaster management.
4) Recent cases of bridge collapses in India call for a prompt institutional revamp and close oversight. Critically Analyze.(250 words)
Why this question
India has recently witnessed a series of cases of bridge collapses. In this connection it is important to analyze the reasons behind the same and identify the possible solutions in this regard.
Directive word
Critically analyze-here we have to examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts, and present them as a whole in a summary.
Key demand of the question.
The question wants us to dig deep into the issue of collapsing bridges in India and analyze its important aspects- what are the reasons behind this and what could be the plausible solutions in this regard.
Structure of the answer
Introduction– write a few introductory lines about bridge collapses in India and across the world.
Body-
- Discuss the reasons behind such bridge collapses. E.g All reinforced concrete (RCC) structures, including bridges, are prone to corrosive deterioration; under hot and humid conditions, the build-up of internal pressure can reduce concrete stiffness and strength, particularly in bridges with huge moving loads on their decks; corruption and use of sub-standard material, usually in collusion of the government officials etc.
- Discuss what could be the possible solutions. E.g There’s an urgent need to systematically and thoroughly fill up gaps in bridge maintenance and renewal nationwide; swiftly identify structurally deficient bridges, especially those in dense urban centres with speedily rising vehicular traffic, and better allocate resources for the specific and express purpose of repair and replacement; New avenues for resource allocation for bridge maintenance need to be explored and acted upon; public-private partnerships need to be duly formalised; need for central oversight for bridge maintenance. Modern satellite systems can now monitor bridge deformations down to the millimetre level in real time.
The use of such systems for bridge monitoring must be made routine etc.Conclusion– based on your discussion form a fair and balanced conclusion on the given issue.
