Residents risk lives on rotting Assam footbridge

Guwahati: Residents of Shalkona and Bamuni in Assam’s Kaliabor region remain trapped by a lack of basic infrastructure. They rely on a makeshift footbridge to cross the Missajuri river, facing constant danger. It is their only path to work, school, and clinics. No permanent structure exists today.

Students, patients, and the elderly make this trip every single day. The current state of the crossing creates massive safety risks. When monsoon rains hit, the river swells and the current turns violent. Crossing becomes a gamble. Residents say the misery does not stop at the river bank. Poor road conditions further isolate the area and block access to essential services.

Locals have spent years fighting for a real bridge and better pavement. They are done waiting. Authorities have ignored the issue for far too long. Residents recently spoke out about the situation, stating, "The demand for a permanent bridge has remained pending for years." They are now pushing elected representatives to finally fund and finish the project to end their long-standing isolation.