'No bridge over troubled waters': Bokakhat’s children risk death for education daily

"Today’s children are the future of the nation," says the slogan. But in Assam’s Bokakhat, even their present isn’t safe, let alone their future. 

A haunting image from the area shows young students risking their lives every day, navigating the flooded Dhansiri River in a small country boat just to reach school.

As the monsoon rains swell the river, children from nearby villages are forced to undertake this dangerous journey due to the absence of a proper bridge. 

Each day becomes a battle between education and survival, as students cross the treacherous waters of the Dhansiri — a journey that makes even the strongest hearts tremble.

Also Read: Jayanta Malla Baruah says ‘clean since joining BJP’, blames Congress for past deeds

Locals recall how a temporary bamboo bridge was once built by the villagers themselves. But that too was swept away by the rising floodwaters. Despite repeated appeals, the government has yet to construct a permanent, concrete bridge in the area.

“If you imagine your own child in that boat, crossing a flooded river, the image is terrifying,” said a local resident. “Who will take responsibility if a tragedy occurs?”

The visuals captured from Bokakhat raise serious questions about rural infrastructure and government priorities. A single all-weather bridge could connect both sides safely and ensure students are not forced to risk their lives for an education.

As the rains continue and rivers swell, the community’s plea to the government is clear: build the bridge before disaster strikes.