Delay in construction of suspension bridge adds to woes of tribals in Kandhamal

Kandhamal: Tardy progress of an under-construction suspension bridge over river Khadaga has become a cause of concern for tribals of Kutungia Panchayat  of Baliguda village in Kandhamal. The villagers have been facing problems to cross the river for day to day activities as much as medical emergency since long.

According to sources, the work of the bridge that started three years back, is being constructed at a cost of Rs 5 crore sanctioned by the State government, under the supervision of the Integrated Tribal Development Agency (ITDA) of Baliguda. However, the project has hardly made much progress.

The villagers had complained about the problems to the local administration about the communication problems they face due to the river. But the administration did not pay any heed to it, the villagers alleged.

‘’It is a headache for us to cross the river with two wheelers. For medical emergencies also we are left with no option but to cross the river by swimming across,’’ said a villager, adding, ‘’we had met the Baliguda subcollector about the delay of bridge construction but were shocked to know that materials required for the construction have also not reached the spot.’’

Contacted,  Sub-collector Satya Krishnan KP said, ‘’due to non-availability of construction material, the suspension bridge work has been delayed. As soon as it reaches us, the work will be done as soon as possible.’’