The bridge connecting Borga Bogi union to Nishanbaria union over the canal near the fish market in Taltali upazila town of Barguna has collapsed, causing severe hardship for the people of at least 10 villages in the area.
The bridge was a vital connection for those traveling to and from the upazila town. It collapsed suddenly on Friday morning. Due to the lack of alternative roads, locals are now crossing the canal using small boats to reach the town.
Locals said that the bridge was built by the LGED about 25 years ago. It was damaged during Cyclone Sidr. After that, it remained in a dilapidated state for 17 years, yet there was no effort from the LGED or local representatives to repair it. People from large areas, including Bar Agunjapara and Khottarchor, relied on the bridge for transportation, even at great personal risk. The collapse of the bridge has caused the greatest inconvenience for students, farmers, fishermen, and patients.
Mahbubul Alam Mamun, Senior Joint Convener of the upazila unit of BNP, said that the bridge was constructed during the BNP's tenure. It was damaged during Cyclone Sidr, and despite repeated demands from the local residents to repair or rebuild the bridge, neither the previous Awami government nor local representatives took any action. People from 10 villages were forced to use the bridge despite the risks.
He also said that the relevant authorities should quickly create an alternative route for the villagers and take steps to rebuild the bridge.
Engineer Md. Sakhawat Hossain, Local Government Engineering Department of Taltali upazila said that the bridge had already been very risky before it collapsed on Friday morning, and the higher authorities have been informed.
Umme Salma, Taltali Upazila Nirbahi Officer, said that upon hearing of the collapse, the Nishanbaria and Borga Bogi union chairmen were sent to the site. Temporary arrangements will be made for the people of the 10 villages to ensure alternative communication, and later, efforts will be made to construct a permanent bridge in place of the collapsed one.