Just three days after its inauguration, Karnataka's first floating bridge was reportedly damaged by powerful waves.
The bridge had been inaugurated at Udupi's Malpe beach as a tourist attraction. It allowed visitors to feel sea waves beneath their feet.
The bridge had been inaugurated by MLA K. Raghupati Bhat. Huge crowds had been seen at the beach on the first day, with people clamouring for the new experience.
However, just three days later, a starkly difference scene prevailed at the Malpe beach. Some pieces of the bridge were seen on the beach, while others floated in the sea.
However, the leaseholder reportedly claimed that the bridge had been "disconnected" to prevent damage. Sudesh Shetty, the leaseholder, told The Indian Express that the locks of the bridge had been disconnected amid strong winds and waves.
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Congress, which is in Opposition in Karnataka, used the opportunity to allege corruption by the BJP government. The floating bridge was made at a cost of Rs 80 lakhs by 3 local entrepreneurs.