JHALAKATHI, JUNE 01 (V7N) – Communication between the two sides of the Katakhali-Nalbunia (Kalbari) canal in Galua Union of Rajapur Upazila, Jhalakathi, has been completely severed after the temporary bridge deck was washed away by strong currents. This incident has plunged local residents into extreme suffering.

The temporary bridge was put in place because the main bridge construction has been incomplete for a prolonged period. Locals had been using the temporary crossing at significant risk, but the recent strong currents in the canal proved too much, leading to its collapse. Consequently, the two sides are now entirely cut off from each other.

This disruption has created severe transportation problems for all residents, particularly school-going students, the elderly, and patients. Locals report major impediments to accessing essential education and medical services.

Affected residents from both sides of the canal have appealed to the local administration for urgent action. They highlighted their long-standing suffering due to the incomplete bridge work, which has now escalated to a complete halt in traffic. They are strongly demanding the swift completion of the bridge's construction to make it suitable for traffic and, in the interim, immediate arrangements for temporary crossing facilities. The general public of the area has sought the intervention of the concerned authorities to resolve this pressing issue.

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