Agartala, 24th July 2026: A suspension bridge over the Gomati River at Madhuban in Sonamura has remained in a severely dilapidated condition for nearly three years, posing a serious risk to hundreds of daily commuters. Despite its unsafe condition, local residents, students and office-goers continue to use the bridge every day due to the lack of an alternative route.
According to local sources, the suspension bridge serves as a vital link for residents of Barnarayan, Gururband and Bejimara villages to reach Sonamura town. It is extensively used for accessing markets, healthcare facilities, government offices and Sonamura Degree College, making it an essential route for students and the public alike.
Residents alleged that repeated appeals for repairing the bridge have gone unanswered. They also claimed that confusion between the Kathalia Block administration and the Sonamura Nagar Panchayat over maintenance responsibility has delayed restoration work. While the Block administration reportedly says the bridge falls under the Nagar Panchayat, the civic body maintains that it is the responsibility of the Block administration.
Local resident Ramesh Debnath said the bridge is used daily by children, students, women and elderly people, adding that minor accidents have become frequent due to its deteriorating condition. “We have repeatedly urged the authorities to repair the bridge, but no action has been taken so far. The bridge must be repaired before a major tragedy occurs,” he said.
Local residents and students have demanded immediate repair of the suspension bridge or the provision of an alternative means of transportation, warning that continued administrative delay could lead to a serious accident at any time.
