PRAYAGRAJ, Oct. 14 -- A new 272-metre-long bridge is proposed over the Belan river between Ratyaura and Barokhar in the Koraon area of Prayagraj's trans-Yamuna region. The project has raised hopes of better connectivity for thousands of residents of more than 40 villages who face prolonged disruption during the monsoon. The Prayagraj unit of the Uttar Pradesh State Bridge Corporation has prepared a detailed project report (DPR) for the bridge under the Long Bridge (Rural) scheme. The report has been sent to the corporation's headquarters for approval, officials said. The project is estimated to cost Rs.31 crore. Construction will begin after the required budgetary approval is received and the tendering process is completed, officials added. The proposal follows long-standing demands for a permanent bridge in the area. The existing low-level causeway between Ratyaura and Barokhar is around 500 metres long. However, it gets submerged during the monsoon, disrupting movement for weeks. This year, too, the crossing remained submerged for more than two months. This affected thousands of residents from over 40 villages....