Fragile bamboo bridge puts Kurigram’s Phulbari residents in danger

For more than three years, over 10,000 people in eight villages of Kurigram’s Phulbari upazila have been living with a daily risk to life and limb, crossing a fragile bamboo bridge over the Neelkomol River.

The makeshift bridge, built by locals between Balatari and Chandrakhana villages under Phulbari Sadar Union, was erected after the collapse of a wooden bridge. 

Since then, despite repeated visits and assurances from public representatives and officials, no permanent concrete structure has been constructed.

Residents of Balatari, Chandrakhana, Jelepara, Kumarpur, Bamanitari, Abashon, Bairagipara and Dashiar Char remain dependent on the risky bamboo crossing. 

Accidents are common, villagers say, and at least one life has already been lost.

Sixty-year-old farmer Ehsan Ali recounted the tragedy of losing his son Atikur Rahman, 36, who succumbed to injuries after falling from the bridge.

“I myself have fallen twice. Every time we hear promises, but no bridge. Only Allah knows when a proper bridge will be built here,” he said, his voice choked with grief.

Students, too, have suffered. College-goer Faruk Hossain recalled a recent accident that left him with injuries and a broken mobile phone.

“The bamboo bridge is a constant risk, especially for women carrying children. A concrete bridge has become a necessity,” he said.

Local farmer Akter Ali said that villagers themselves bear the burden of repairs.

“I donate 50 to 60 bamboos annually while others contribute labour. Walking on it is a daily struggle. If not a concrete bridge, at least a wooden one should be built for now,” he added.

Heavy goods cannot be carried across the bamboo structure, leaving boats as the only transport option. Meanwhile, schoolchildren, farmers and daily commuters risk their safety every day.

Officials acknowledge the problem. 

Local Government Engineering Department (LGED) Upazila Engineer Mamunur Rahman said he had visited the site and sent a proposal for a 120-metre bridge over the Neelkomol River.

“We are in touch with higher authorities for approval,” he said.

Phulbari Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Rehenuma Tarannum confirmed that funds had already been allocated for a temporary bamboo-wooden bridge.
“The work will begin soon to ease movement,” she said.

But for villagers who have heard similar pledges for years, patience is wearing thin. For now, their fragile bamboo bridge stands as both a lifeline and a looming hazard.