Jhalokathi, Oct 22 (V7N) – Nearly three years after the completion of a Tk 1.60 crore bridge over the canal near the vegetable market in Rajapur Upazila, locals are still unable to benefit from it due to the absence of connecting access roads on either side. The bridge, constructed in June 2023, was intended to ease transportation for thousands of market vendors, shoppers, and residents, but the lack of proper roads has left them struggling daily.
Market vendors and pedestrians said they had hoped the bridge would reduce their difficulties, but it has instead worsened their commute. Many children face minor accidents trying to access the bridge via the muddy paths, and elderly residents cannot cross without assistance. Both sides of the bridge host educational institutions and government offices, making the situation even more critical.
Locals reported that despite the bridge costing over Tk 1.60 crore, its benefits remain unrealized. Goods must be carried over long distances due to the lack of proper access roads, resulting in wasted time and extra expenses. Although paved roads exist on both sides of the canal, the connecting access routes are still incomplete, forcing residents to climb the bridge from unpaved dirt paths. The old bridge was demolished to build the current structure, but for almost two years, residents have endured this hardship.
Teacher Shagor Mridha said the bridge is vital as both sides of the canal have permanent markets and a busy vegetable market. Every day, thousands of people use the bridge, but the absence of connecting roads creates severe difficulties. He urged authorities to complete the roads immediately.
Local resident Monwara Begum stated that even two years after the bridge was built, access roads remain unfinished, denying thousands of people the intended benefits. Van driver Jamir Uddin added that without a proper road, transporting goods is extremely difficult, rendering the costly bridge almost useless.
The contractor, Rezaul Karim, previously claimed that the construction of connecting roads required designs from the Upazila LGED engineer. Despite repeated assurances from Rajapur Upazila LGED engineer Abhijit Majumdar that the roads would be built soon, no progress has been made. Locals have called on the authorities and the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) to ensure the immediate construction of the access roads.
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