A sole bridge connecting nearly 25 villages in West Bengal’s Bankura has gone underwater due to incessant rainfall, leaving thousands of villagers in deep distress. Continuous rainfall for the past two days caused the Gandheshwari river to swell, submerging the Mankanali bridge in three to four feet of fast-flowing water.

Since Wednesday, water has been flowing over the bridge at high intensity, completely halting traffic on the route that links Bankura to Mankanali. The affected region now finds itself cut off, with residents unable to access essential services in the city.

“The bridge is submerged in water. One has to travel at least 25 kilometres in a roundabout way. There is no way out even in an emergency,” said a local.

The impact has been severe on villagers who depend on Bankura Sadar for education, healthcare and daily necessities. The sudden disconnection has sparked frustration and fear among locals, who accuse the administration of ignoring repeated appeals for a permanent solution.

“Every year, administrative officials come and promise to build a strong bridge. But, nothing happens, promises remain promises,” said another resident, echoing a sentiment widely shared across the region.

A bus driver, Laltu Sutra, expressed his concern over the recurring problem. “Every year, leaders come and promise to build the bridge. Last year, this bridge was made suitable for traffic by the brick kiln owners, but it was also destroyed in the rain. Any passenger heading to the hospital will have to face extreme hardship in this situation.”