A key bridge in Nalchity Upazila of Jhalakathi, damaged by Cyclone Sidr, has remained unrepaired for 19 years, leaving several villages effectively cut off and thousands facing prolonged hardship.
The iron bridge, located over the Veron Baria canal in Ranapasha Union, was built during the Ershad era and spans about 22 metres.
It once served as a vital link for residents of Veron Baria and nearby villages, but collapsed during the devastating cyclone.
With no repair work undertaken since, locals have built a temporary bamboo footbridge to maintain basic movement.
Residents say the makeshift structure is unsafe and cannot support vehicles, forcing people to rely on risky crossings.
“Veron Baria is one of the most densely populated areas in the union, yet this important bridge has been lying broken for years without any attention,” said local resident Anichur Rahman.
“We built the bamboo bridge ourselves, but it becomes fragile every year and has to be rebuilt again and again,” he said.
Another resident, Mirajul Islam, said the situation has persisted for far too long.
“People are suffering daily, and we do not know how long this will continue unless the authorities act,” he said.
Students are among the worst affected, as several educational institutions, including Uttar Veron Baria Government Primary School, are located nearby.
Children are forced to cross the narrow bamboo structure, exposing them to frequent accidents, residents said.
“Small children often fall into the canal while crossing, and parents remain anxious after sending them to school,” said local resident Saidul Islam Rony.
The lack of a proper bridge has also disrupted local trade, as traders and residents must take longer alternative routes to access nearby markets.
Responding to the concerns, Nalchity Upazila Local Government Engineering Department (LGED) Officer Azizul Haq said authorities are aware of the issue.
“Local people have informed us about the condition of the bridge, and we will take necessary steps soon to repair it,” he said.
