Jamtara – A vital bridge connecting Jamtara district to more than 150 villages collapsed on Tuesday, cutting off essential services and access to the district headquarters.
Known as the Dakshin Bahal bridge, it linked Jamtara to Deoghar and was built in 1980 using stone materials. Days of heavy rainfall led to the river swelling and washing away the weakened structure.
Movement was already restricted to two-wheelers since July 18 after structural damage appeared. But the final collapse has now left locals stranded and scrambling for alternate routes.
Residents who earlier traveled just 500 meters must now take detours up to 20 kilometers long to access basic facilities like hospitals, schools, and markets.
The collapse has severely affected students, daily laborers, and patients trying to reach Jamtara Sadar Hospital. The situation has paralyzed life in the area, which is under Minister Irfan Ansari’s constituency.
Thousands of vehicles used the bridge every day. Its sudden fall has not only halted transportation but also created fears of more serious consequences if urgent help doesn’t arrive.
Authorities have begun barricading the site and are planning alternate connectivity and construction of a new bridge. Locals are demanding swift, visible action to restore access before worsening rains create deeper chaos.
With inputs from IANS