Anxiety rises as torched bridge cuts off 4 villages in Jhargram before board exams

Four villages in Jhargram district have been left virtually cut off after unidentified miscreants set fire to a temporary wooden and bamboo footbridge in Laljal area of Belpahari on Sunday night. The incident has triggered widespread concern, particularly as the Class 12 board examinations are set to begin on Thursday.

The makeshift bridge, constructed over a hill stream at the entrance of Laljal village under Bhulaveda Gram Panchayat in Binpur-II Block, was the primary link for residents of Laljal, Patagarh, Khandarbhula and Gidighati. The earlier permanent culvert at the spot had been washed away during last year’s monsoon. With administrative assistance, villagers had built the temporary structure, which has now been destroyed, bringing movement to a halt.

In the absence of the bridge, residents are forced to cross muddy fields on foot to reach nearby areas. Alternatively, they must travel nearly eight extra kilometres via the Belpahari–Banshpahari state road, increasing travel time and expenses. Parents have expressed anxiety that students may fail to reach examination centres on time, potentially affecting their future.

A village meeting held on Wednesday evening reflected mounting anger among locals. Residents alleged that despite repeated appeals, no permanent solution has been implemented. Representatives from the Belpahari Tourism Association also warned that tourists expected during the upcoming Basanti Puja and fair could face inconvenience if immediate arrangements are not made.

The President of the Binpur-II Panchayat Samiti said a proposal for construction of a permanent culvert has already been sent to the district administration and work will begin after approval. However, with no official alternative arrangement announced yet, villagers continue to demand urgent and concrete measures to restore connectivity.