A 38-year-old dilapidated bridge over Srer Canal on the Bir Muktijoddha Kabir Pradhan (Patka–Bauni Bazar Regional) Road in Sreepur Upazila of Gazipur District has long been causing severe suffering to several thousand residents, as large structural cracks and exposed iron rods have made it increasingly unsafe for movement.
The bridge deck has developed multiple holes, while portions of plaster from the underside have fallen away, exposing rusted steel reinforcement bars. Locals say the structure is now at serious risk of collapse, posing a threat to both pedestrians and vehicles.
Residents allege that the only visible action taken by authorities so far has been the installation of red warning flags at the site. No effective repair or reconstruction work has yet begun.
According to officials of the Local Government Engineering Department (LGED), the bridge was constructed several decades ago. Residents estimate its age at around 38 years. They further said that about five years ago, after re-excavation of the canal, strong monsoon currents eroded nearly one-third of the soil and brick support beneath the structure, significantly weakening it.
The bridge serves as a vital link for people of Patka, Bauni, and Hayatkharchala villages. It is heavily used by workers of nearby industrial establishments, including Prostar Apparels Limited and Nourish Poultry and Hatchery, as well as students of Hera Patka Government Primary School and Patka Madrasa.
With the bridge now unsafe, locals have been forced to take a detour of nearly seven kilometres via the Sreepur–Bauni road, increasing both travel time and transportation costs.
“We now have to travel an extra seven kilometres because of the damaged bridge,” said Naeem, a resident of Patka village. “It wastes our time and doubles transportation costs.”
Rahim Uddin of Hayatkharchala village said the bridge had remained dangerous for years. “Now the lower section is collapsing, making it impossible to cross safely. Students, workers and farmers are suffering the most,” he said.
Abdul Jabbar, 60, warned that continued neglect could lead to serious accidents and possible loss of life, while residents said repeated requests for repair have gone unanswered for years.
Farooq Ahmed, Acting Chairman of Gosinga Union Parishad, acknowledged the vulnerability of the bridge. “The recent damage has effectively cut off movement for both vehicles and pedestrians. We have informed the Upazila Engineer and urged immediate reconstruction,” he said.
Sreepur Upazila Engineer Touhid Ahmed said officials had inspected the site after reports of damage. “As an immediate safety measure, red flags have been installed to warn commuters. Necessary steps will be taken soon to resolve the problem,” he added.
Residents have urged urgent reconstruction of the bridge, warning that further delay could lead to a major accident and deepen public suffering.
