[object Object]

Thousands of residents in Balidia village, Magura, face daily peril due to a dilapidated bridge over a canal, with schoolchildren being particularly vulnerable. The bridge, constructed approximately 27 years ago, has seen its railings collapse and significant deterioration in its central sections. Locals have resorted to temporary concrete repairs to maintain usability, but cracks have appeared, and the structure remains precarious.

The 135-foot-long, six-and-a-half-foot-wide bridge lacks protective railings on either side, overlooking a 15-20 foot deep canal. This poses a constant danger to pedestrians, especially during the monsoon when the bridge's condition worsens. Mahafuzur Rahman, headteacher of Balidia Secondary School, highlighted the frequent minor accidents and stressed the urgent need for a new bridge to ensure student safety.

“

Minor accidents occur frequently. Considering the safety of students, a new bridge should be constructed to replace it soon.

Golam Mortaza, a local teacher, noted that the bridge has received minimal maintenance since its construction around 1996-97. The railings were damaged around 2015, forcing residents to use the risky structure for over a decade. Md Golzar Hossain, the upazila engineer in Mohammadpur, confirmed that designs and project information for a new, wider bridge have been sent to higher authorities and the matter is currently under process.

“

The matter is currently under process.