The collapse of Berigaon bridge in Surma union of Sunamganj Sadar has left around 50,000 people isolated, disrupting communication across at least three nearby unions.
The old bridge, which connected Surma, Jahangirnagar and Rangarchar areas, gave way during Ramadan, stopping the movement of vehicles and pedestrians. As a result, residents are now forced to take longer alternative routes.
Built during the Pakistan period, the bridge had been in poor condition for many years. Locals said it remained risky for nearly three decades, despite repeated complaints to authorities.
Although temporary repairs were carried out in early 2024 after it was declared unsafe, those measures did not last, eventually leading to the collapse.
With the bridge now unusable, people have to travel about two kilometres through Mangal Kanta Bazar in neighbouring Jahangirnagar union, increasing both travel time and costs.
The situation has created serious problems for students, office workers and patients, who are struggling to reach schools, workplaces and healthcare services.
Local residents expressed frustration over the long-standing neglect. Many said daily life has become difficult and called for immediate construction of a new bridge.
Chairman Rashid Ahmed of Jahangirnagar Union Parishad said the bridge was a vital route for the area and its collapse has worsened public suffering.
Meanwhile, Md Anwar Hossain, a senior assistant engineer of the Local Government Engineering Department, said a temporary structure similar to a Bailey bridge will be set up soon to restore movement.
He added that work on building a permanent new bridge is already in progress and efforts are being made to complete it quickly.
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