The bridge’s lifespan has ended. Yet, hundreds of vehicles cross it daily, taking grave risks. There is a fear that the bridge could collapse into the canal at any moment, causing a major disaster.
Constructed in the 1980s, the bridge has become increasingly dangerous, with railings on both sides broken and plaster peeling off the pillars.
An on-site visit revealed that this is the only route for approximately 30-35,000 people from the border area of Durgapur union in Aditmari upazila to travel to the Lalmonirhat district and upazila towns with agricultural products, such as paddy, rice, maize, and vegetables, as well as for daily necessities.
The Durgapur-Bhelabari road is crucial for this agriculture-dependent area.
The bridge over the Ratnai River in the Kalirhat area on this road is sagging under the weight of age, yet no renovation work has been done on this old bridge for a long time. The bridge’s railings and pillars have broken, rendering it a death trap.
When large vehicles cross, the bridge shakes and plaster falls. Vehicles from one direction have to wait while a single vehicle crosses from the other side.
Local residents said that many people from the area have already been injured in accidents while crossing this risky bridge. It urgently needs repair or demolition and reconstruction. Furthermore, a major accident could occur if it collapses at any time.
Acting Chairman of Durgapur Union Parishad, Sohrab Hossain, said, “People from one border union use this bridge. The bridge’s condition is currently dangerous. We have repeatedly urged the authorities concerned for reconstruction, but no effective measures have been taken. Reconstructing the bridge would alleviate people’s suffering and bring development to the area.”
Locals said, “Promises come before elections, but work doesn’t follow. It seems our fate is a broken bridge and empty words.”
They demand that the bridge be permanently built quickly to reduce public suffering and ensure transparency and accountability. They hope this demand aligns with humanity, a sense of responsibility, and the government’s development vision.
Regarding this issue, Lalmonirhat LGED Executive Engineer Md Kawsar Alam said, “The topographic survey and soil test for the dilapidated bridge have already been completed. The design work is ongoing, tenders will be invited soon, and construction will commence quickly.”
