A major traffic disruption ensued on the Embilipitiya-Middeniya road today as the bridge spanning the Hulanda Oya river collapsed, originating from the Kumbugodaara area.
The incident, occurring between 6:30 and 7:30 AM, brought traffic to a standstill and prompted concerns about water supply in affected regions.
The collapse was triggered by a loaded timber lorry, according to initial reports from the scene. Local residents highlighted that the incident has not only halted traffic but also disrupted water supply in some areas.
Constructed back in 1985 during the tenure of late President Ranasinghe Premadasa, the bridge's collapse is attributed to the widening of the road on both sides without adequate maintenance over the years. Locals assert that the widening project left the bridge vulnerable, eventually leading to its collapse this morning.
Authorities are currently assessing the extent of the damage and working on immediate measures to restore traffic flow and address water supply disruptions in the affected areas.
