Agartala, 25th June 2026: Despite repeated assertions of development, the grim reality in Wards 1, 2, 3, and 4 of North and South Padmabil Gram Panchayats under the Panisagar Assembly constituency tells a different story. For thousands of residents, daily life is defined by dilapidated roads and a perilous bridge that has become a death trap.
The sole connecting road between Jalabazar and Barabazar has been left in disrepair for years, affecting nearly 450 families. Alongside it, the old steel bridge—the only other link for connectivity—poses a grave danger. Locals say the bridge is so unsafe that children cannot cross alone; guardians must escort them daily to prevent accidents.
Most alarming is the plight of over 200 students who risk their lives every day to reach school. Residents also report that ambulances cannot access the area, forcing families to carry pregnant women and critically ill patients across the hazardous bridge on shoulders or in baskets.
Villagers allege that despite repeated appeals to the administration and elected representatives, no effective action has been taken. Their suffering worsens during the monsoon season, when both road and bridge become virtually impassable.
The residents now demand immediate repair of the road and construction of a permanent, safe bridge. They warn that unless urgent steps are taken, the administration may soon be forced to answer for a preventable tragedy.
