Chhatarpur Villagers Risk Lives Crossing Swollen River Daily Due To Missing Bridge

In the village of Purwa, located in the Chhatarpur district of Madhya Pradesh, residents are facing a daily struggle due to the absence of a bridge over the Kumhed River. This gap forces them to cross a swollen river every day, risking their lives to reach the neighboring municipal area of Maharajpur. The village, home to around 250 to 300 people, depends on Maharajpur for essential services like education, healthcare, and other necessities.

Harpai Purwa falls under Ward 15 of Maharajpur municipal area. The community suffers significantly when the river's water level rises, making the journey hazardous for schoolchildren, elderly people, patients, and pregnant women. Parents often carry their children on their shoulders or hold their hands as they navigate the perilous crossing.

The villagers allege that political leaders promise to build the bridge during election campaigns, but once the elections are over, the issue is forgotten. The residents are frustrated, as they have been facing the same predicament every rainy season for years. They have repeatedly urged the administration and elected representatives to construct a permanent bridge over the Kumhed River, expressing their disappointment in not receiving any tangible solutions.

The situation has become so dire that children are at risk of being swept away when crossing the flooded road. Recently, a class 1 student was swept away in the floodwaters, but was fortunately rescued by locals. Despite the danger, villagers are adamant about their demand for a bridge, stating that they no longer seek empty assurances and expect concrete action to alleviate their long-standing transport problem.