60,000 people await a bridge in Ramu Upazila
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Around 60,000 people live in Kauarkhop Union of Ramu Upazila in Cox's Bazar and Sonaichhari Union of Naikhongchhari Upazila in Bandarban. Their long-cherished dream has been a bridge over the Bankkhali River. In an effort to fulfill that dream, the construction of the "Kauarkhop-Monirjhil Bridge" was initiated. However, following a change in the political landscape, the project was canceled. As a result, the years-long wait for the people of both districts remains unfulfilled.
According to locals, the Bankkhali River has been a major obstacle to communication between the two regions since independence. Students have to cross the river by boat to get to schools and colleges. People also suffer difficulties in accessing medical treatment. Various barriers arise in trade, commerce, and the transport of agricultural products. Consequently, thousands of people face hardships every day.
Preliminary works on the bridge began on August 22, 2021. At that time, the Local Government Engineering Department (LGED) inspected potential sites. Design formulation, hydrological and morphological surveys, soil testing, and digital survey preparations were also completed. Locals became optimistic about the project's implementation. But ultimately, the project never saw the light of day.
Local teacher Mohammad Osman Gani said, "Every day, 200 to 300 students cross the river by boat. If the bridge is built, it will facilitate travel for students, patients, farmers, and ordinary people. At the same time, economic activity will increase. New opportunities will also emerge in the tourism sector."
Young businessman Tarek Al Aziz said, "Due to a lack of administrative oversight, we have been suffering for years. If the bridge is constructed quickly, the people of the area will benefit the most."
Local farmer Abul Kalam said, "Since childhood, I have seen that the only means of communication was a makeshift bridge. It also breaks during monsoons and high tides. A permanent bridge is our long-standing dream."
Regarding the matter, Ramu Upazila Executive Officer Md. Zillur Rahman said, "I am aware of the bridge issue. About three months ago, the upazila administration sent a letter to the government. No response has been received yet. However, we are continuing our efforts to ensure the bridge is built soon."
Local residents demand that the project be reapproved and that immediate steps be taken for its implementation. They believe that if the Kauarkhop-Monirjhil Bridge is built, new horizons of communication between Ramu and Naikhongchhari will open up. Additionally, neglected communities will be integrated into the mainstream of development.
