A bridge costing approximately Tk 10.5 million has been constructed over a canal in Baraikandi village under Shreepur Union of Sundarganj upazila in Gaibandha. However, despite the completion of the structure, the absence of approach roads on both sides has left the bridge unusable, forcing nearly 20,000 residents to cross the canal using a fragile bamboo and wooden footbridge.
A visit to the site revealed that the bridge, built with funding from the Department of Disaster Management and Relief, appears structurally complete. However, deep gaps and uneven ground on both ends have made it impossible for motorcycles, auto-rickshaws, or any other vehicles to use the bridge. Local residents have constructed a temporary bamboo footbridge at their own expense, but it has already become unstable and risky.
School and college students are among the worst sufferers. Many were seen carrying their bicycles on their shoulders while crossing the bamboo bridge. Farmers, teachers, traders, and other residents are also risking their lives every day to use the route. During the monsoon season, the slippery bamboo structure further increases the risk of accidents.
Residents alleged that the project design included approach roads on both sides of the bridge, but the contractor failed to complete that part of the work while reportedly receiving payment. Although the bridge construction was completed around three months ago, no visible progress has been made on building the connecting roads.
The bridge serves as a vital communication link for nearly 20,000 people. Locals have demanded the immediate construction of the approach roads and an investigation into how payment was made before the project was fully completed.
According to the Upazila Project Implementation Office, the 50-foot-long and 14-foot-wide bridge was constructed during the 2025–26 fiscal year at an estimated cost of Tk 10.5 million. The contract was awarded to Ramim Enterprise, with construction beginning in January and scheduled for completion by June. The project documents included the construction of approach roads on both sides, but those works remain unfinished.
Local resident Rafiqul Islam said, “A bridge worth millions has been built, but there is no road to reach it. We are forced to cross using a bamboo footbridge, and schoolchildren risk their lives every day.”
College student Arifur Rahman said, “The situation becomes even more dangerous during the rainy season when the bamboo bridge turns slippery. Without the approach roads, the bridge is of no real benefit to us.”
Attempts to contact Ziaur Rahman, proprietor of Ramim Enterprise, were unsuccessful as his mobile phone remained switched off.
Similarly, repeated calls to Project Implementation Officer (PIO) Mashiur Rahman went unanswered, and he could not be reached at his office for comments.
However, Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Iffat Jahan Tuli said the construction of the approach roads had been delayed due to water in the canal. She added that the contractor had been instructed to complete the remaining work as soon as possible. According to her, payments were made only for the completed portion of the project, and the remaining work is expected to be finished shortly.
