Habiganj Representative/

The Ratna Bailey Bridge on the Habiganj-Baniachong road is under threat. There is a fear of disconnection of various areas including Baniachong, Ajmiriganj with the district due to collapse at any time. Although a signboard at the entrance of the bridge mentions the prohibition of movement of cargo vehicles of more than 5 tons, various types of heavy vehicles including cargo and covered vans carrying cargo weighing 20 to 25 tons are flouting the ban. As a result, the base of the bridge and even the sleeper in the middle have broken and turned into ditches. Accidents often happen while small vehicles are running.

Locals complain that heavy vehicles are plying over the dangerous bridge due to lack of supervision by the administration. This can cause the bridge to collapse at any time. A partial renovation was carried out a year ago when it became vulnerable due to floods and rains and even heavy vehicular traffic. However, vehicles weighing more than 5 tons are prohibited. But a different picture was seen on the ground. If the bridge is not repaired on an urgent basis, the residents are afraid of a major accident. The people of Baniachong and Ajmiriganj areas have also demanded the concerned authorities to take immediate action in this regard.