Cooch Behar Bridge Collapses: BJP Blames TMC Corruption, TMC Hits Back

• A 25-30 year old bridge in Sitalkuchi, Cooch Behar, West Bengal, collapsed on Friday while a goods-laden dumper was crossing.
• The dumper driver was rescued and received medical treatment; no fatalities were reported in the incident.
• The bridge connected Debnathpara New Market with Baromashia and was reportedly poorly maintained, despite frequent use by heavy vehicles.
• Local residents expressed concerns about connectivity issues, especially for upcoming Madhyamik exams, if an alternative is not provided.
• BJP's Amit Malviya accused TMC of corruption and 'cut money' culture, while TMC's Debangshu Bhattacharya Dev countered, stating the bridge was built during the Left regime.

Why It Matters: A bridge collapse in Cooch Behar sparks a political blame game between BJP and TMC over corruption and maintenance.