Struggling for connectivity: Gajapati villagers rely on a fragile wooden bridge

In Bhuta Nala near Chamkunda village of Merapalli panchayat, Mohana block in Gajapati district in Odisha, a wooden bridge has turned the only lifeline for 35 villagers. In the absence of a permanent bridge, residents have been navigating this hazardous route for several years. Three sections of the village are located along this canal, making the bridge essential for daily movement.

Villagers face difficulties travelling to schools, colleges, medical facilities, panchayat offices, and daily markets due to the lack of a permanent structure. 

One of the villagers said, “We are facing a lot of troubles. We cannot go to the hospital when it is required, we cannot take our cattle to the other side for grazing. During monsoon flooding, we get completely cut off from the rest of the world.”

Another villager added, “We went to the Mohana BDO and also approached the Collector’s office to request a bridge, but it still has not been built. Our children are unable to attend school either.”

Access to Essential Services Limited

Residents also reportedly face challenges crossing the river to obtain rations and government pensions. Despite these difficulties, the villagers remain hopeful that the authorities will address the matter and construct a permanent bridge soon.

The current reliance on a temporary wooden bridge highlights the urgent need for infrastructure development to ensure safe and uninterrupted access to essential services for the community.