A wooden bridge built with the 25 years of savings of a porter now spares thousands in Kurigram the daily risk of crossing the Buri Teesta River.

Abdul Karim, a resident from the Jonaidanga area under ward No. 8 of Ulipur municipality, spent nearly Tk 3 lakh to build the 120-foot bridge entirely on his own initiative.

What makes the feat extraordinary is how the money was raised: Karim saved bit by bit from his earnings as a porter over 25 years, later selling his motorcycle and taking small loans to complete the bridge.

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For more than two decades, locals had been forced to cross the river using a risky bridge, often facing the danger of accidents. The situation was especially difficult for students, patients, and daily wage workers.

With the new bridge now in place, residents from several nearby villages say their daily travel has become safer and far more convenient.

Earlier, travelling on this route was extremely risky. Students and sick patients suffered the most, local residents said, adding that the bridge has significantly eased their daily struggle.

The bridge was formally inaugurated on April 17 by Karim’s mother. A prayer gathering was held on the occasion, attended by thousands of local people.

Karim said he was compelled to take the initiative after years of waiting for official action.

“The nearby railway bridge was very dangerous. There was always a risk of accidents. Even though many public representatives came, no one took action,” he said.

“So I built this bridge with my own ability — from my income as a porter, my savings over 25 years, selling a motorcycle, and taking loans. I seek everyone’s prayers,” the porter added.

Locals now hope the initiative will inspire improved infrastructure development in neglected rural areas.