Assam: Sribhumi's South Ramkrishnanagar isolated after rising Singla river sweeps away bridge

Continuous rainfall has severely disrupted connectivity in parts of Assam’s Sribhumi district, leaving several areas in the southern region of Ramkrishnanagar virtually cut off from the rest of the district.

The temporary footbridge constructed over the Singla River at Anipur was washed away after the river’s water level rose sharply following days of incessant rainfall. With the collapse of the alternative crossing, communication and transport links between Anipur and surrounding areas have been almost completely disrupted.

Residents of several villages, including Anipur, Timukha, Dullavchhara, Nibia and Ratabari, are reportedly facing major difficulties due to the worsening situation. Daily movement of people has been severely affected, while students, patients, traders and commuters are struggling to travel across the region.

The latest disruption comes months after the collapse of the main concrete bridge connecting Anipur and Ramkrishnanagar. In that incident, seven vehicles fell into the Singla River after the bridge gave way, leaving several persons injured. The vehicles included two overloaded dumpers, two Alto cars, one Bolero pickup vehicle, one Maxima pickup and a motorcycle. Since then, transport connectivity in the area has remained severely affected.

Following the bridge collapse, the administration had constructed a temporary footbridge to restore limited movement. However, the recent rise in the river’s water level swept away the makeshift structure, further aggravating the crisis.

Local residents have alleged that emergency services have also been seriously disrupted due to the absence of a reliable crossing. Concerns have been raised over difficulties in accessing medical facilities and transporting essential goods.

Meanwhile, construction work for another temporary bridge has reportedly begun. However, residents have expressed dissatisfaction over the slow pace of the work, alleging that the delay is increasing hardship for thousands of people in the affected areas.

The situation continues to remain critical as rainfall persists across the region.