The landscape of Rangamati district is undergoing a profound transformation through extensive government-led development initiatives. The once-overlooked Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) region is now experiencing significant progress. However, as development surges forward, the local community is pressing for the removal of unsafe bailey bridges.
Currently, the Rangamati Roads and Highways Division (RHD) oversees 18 bailey bridges, with authorities replacing seven with new concrete structures. Yet, 11 other bridges remain operational, posing substantial risks for vehicles, as locals express concern.
According to RHD officials, converting these 11 bridges to concrete structures would classify the district as bridge-free, addressing the safety concerns raised by the residents.
Among the risky bridges, two are on the Ranirhat-Kaukhali Road, one on Ghagra-Boraichhari and Bangalhalia-Bandarban Road, six on Manikchhari-Bogachhari-Langadu Road, and two on Bangalhalia-Rajsthali Road.
During a recent inspection in Naniarchar, several bailey bridge platforms were found missing, with eroded soil bases and dilapidated conditions. Local residents, crossing these bridges at their own peril, are demanding immediate replacements with sturdy concrete alternatives.
Ripon Das, the general secretary of the Naniarchar Upazila Sports Association, emphasized the urgency of replacing the four risky bailey bridges in the upazila, foreseeing substantial benefits for the local community.
Satish Chandra Chakma and Kishore Chakma, residents of Naniarchar, highlighted the perilous conditions of the bridges, stressing the need for concrete replacements to enhance safety and ease transportation.
Bus driver Abdullah Al Noman from Kaukhali Upazila expressed the imminent risk of accidents while crossing the bridges, echoing the sentiments of Sumon Marma, who recounted an incident where a vehicle slipped, causing injuries.
Progoti Chakma, the upazila chairman, drew attention to the poor road connectivity, urging the government to replace the remaining bailey bridges for the well-being of the community.
Rabiul Awal, deputy assistant engineer of Rangamati Roads and Highways Division, assured that initiatives are underway to address the challenges posed by the hilly terrain and the prevalence of bailey bridges.
Sabuj Chakma, executive engineer of Rangamati RHD, emphasized that replacing the 18 bailey bridges will not only enhance local road connectivity but also attract more tourists to the region, further emphasizing the urgency for action.
