Every day, hundreds of residents from 35 villages in Jamalganj Upazila of Sunamganj district cross the dangerously deteriorating Teranagar Bridge over the Doulata River—despite it being declared “risky and abandoned” more than a decade ago.
According to UNB reports, the 95-metre-long structure, located in Bhimkhali Union, was constructed between 2002 and 2004 under a rural infrastructure project initiated by the late Member of Parliament Nazir Hossain. Initially designed for light traffic such as bicycles and motorcycles, the bridge now bears the daily weight of auto-rickshaws, CNG-run vehicles, motorcycles, and even trolleys and small trucks—posing a serious safety hazard.
Despite its alarming condition, the bridge remains a critical lifeline for locals who have no viable alternative route. It is the only access point to one high school, two village markets, one madrasa, and over 50 primary schools in the region.
Local residents report that the bridge had structural flaws from the beginning, and though it was never intended for heavy traffic, increasing development in the area has forced its use beyond safe limits. New roads connecting Jamalganj to Laxmipur Bazar and Nabin Chandra High School in Phenerbak Union have led to a sharp rise in traffic volume, compounding the stress on the ageing bridge.
The Teranagar Bridge was one of four built under the early-2000s rural development project, and during autumn months, when many low-lying rural paths become impassable, it remains the only dependable route for thousands.
Despite repeated warnings and official abandonment, no permanent solution has been implemented. Local authorities and residents alike are urging urgent government action before a potential tragedy occurs.