Villagers under Salebhata Panchayat threaten poll boycott over bridge delay
SAMBALPUR: In a display of frustration over the prolonged inaction of the district administration and local representatives, residents of nine villages under Salebhata Panchayat in Sambalpur district have taken matters into their own hands by constructing a temporary bridge. The lack of connectivity to the mainland had been a pressing issue for the past six years, dating back to 2017 when the villagers initially brought their concerns to the attention of district officials and local representatives, only to be met with silence.
Faced with the ongoing negligence, the villagers recently mobilized their efforts to create a makeshift bridge over the river. Selecting a strategic location with lower water levels, they began the construction by placing sandbags in the water, creating a stable foundation. Wooden logs were then laid over the sandbags, completing the makeshift bridge. This bridge became functional last week, prompting the villagers to make their struggle public through local media, accompanied by a declaration of their intention to boycott the upcoming general elections with the rallying cry “No Bridge, No Vote.” Banners bearing this slogan were prominently displayed at both ends of the temporary bridge.
The dire need for a permanent bridge is highlighted by the challenges faced by the villagers, including the risk in sending children to school and the daily difficulties in meeting household needs. The temporary bridge, while a commendable effort by the community, is acknowledged to be a short-term solution. The villagers are calling on the authorities to take prompt action in constructing a permanent bridge to address these long-standing issues.
The lack of accessibility to healthcare facilities is a significant concern, forcing residents to travel up to 40 km in case of a medical emergency. Despite multiple attempts to draw attention to their plight, including informing the 5T chairman VK Pandian during his visit to Rairakhol last year, the villagers feel unheard. Their ultimatum to boycott the upcoming elections underscores the seriousness of their demand for immediate action.
In response to the villagers’ grievances, the Block Development Officer, Danei Charan Tudu, has informed that a site has already been identified for the construction of the permanent bridge over the Tikra river, and a tender has been passed. The situation underscores the urgency of addressing the basic infrastructure needs of the Salebhata Panchayat and highlights the broader challenges faced by rural communities in ensuring essential services and connectivity.
