Decades of neglect: Villagers forced to use fragile bamboo bridge in Kaliabor, no permanent solution in sight

For nearly two decades, residents of Shialekhati and Mishamukh Pam villages under the Kaliabor Legislative Assembly constituency have been compelled to depend on a fragile bamboo bridge for their daily commute, highlighting a long-standing infrastructure gap in the region.

The makeshift bamboo bridge across the Kolong River remains the sole link connecting the two areas. Constructed and maintained by local residents through donations and voluntary contributions, the structure continues to serve as a lifeline despite posing serious safety risks, particularly during the monsoon season.

Adding to the hardship, the approach road passing through Mishamukh Pam is in a dilapidated condition. The unpaved stretch becomes nearly impassable during adverse weather, further endangering commuters, including schoolchildren, elderly residents, and patients requiring medical assistance. Locals allege that repeated appeals to elected representatives have gone unanswered.

The bamboo bridge also serves as the only point of connectivity between Rahdhala Panchayat and Kuhumatali Panchayat. Each year, villagers are forced to reconstruct the bridge at their own expense after it is damaged by floods or wear and tear, underscoring the absence of permanent infrastructure support.

Expressing growing frustration, residents have once again urged the government to take immediate steps to construct a permanent bridge over the Kolong River. They maintain that a durable structure is essential to ensure safe, uninterrupted connectivity and to improve access to education, healthcare, and essential services in the area.