Daijiworld Media Network – Beltangady (EP)

Beltangady, Jul 26: The bridge at Kadabagilu, which connects Kukkunje to Alamba, Barengadi, Omjardadi, Erdadi, Panjalu, and other areas, collapsed on Wednesday,July 26, posing significant challenges for the local residents.

The bridge, constructed approximately 50 years ago, served as the sole access point for about 30 Malekudiya families and others residing within the forest limits. Sadly, the central pillar of the bridge, weakened by time, gave way, rendering the structure unusable. As a result, residents now face the inevitable task of covering several kilometers on foot due to the bridge's collapse.

The forest inhabitants were previously receiving their rations via vehicles, but with the bridge now out of commission, they are forced to transport essential supplies on foot, a burdensome endeavor. Moreover, this collapse raises concerns about the potential difficulties the people might encounter during emergency situations.

It is worth noting that a bridge near Kukkuje had collapsed three years prior, prompting authorities to construct a replacement. While they inspected the Kadabagilu bridge at that time, it regrettably remained unreconstructed.

Local resident Cheenkra Malekudia Barengadi has fervently appealed to the concerned authorities to promptly reconstruct the bridge for the well-being of the local community.