Bhubaneswar, July 7 -- Continuous rain has disrupted connectivity in parts of Odisha's Sonepur district, with nearly 1.5 feet of water flowing over the Khairmal Bridge under Singhijuba Gram Panchayat in Binika block. The flooded bridge has made commuting risky, forcing residents to cross the submerged stretch on foot or on two-wheelers despite the danger.

The bridge is a key link for Khairmal and several neighbouring villages and also connects the route towards Bargarh, making it an important corridor for daily commuters, traders and students.

Residents said the bridge gets submerged even after moderate rainfall, leaving them with no option but to take the risk or travel several kilometres through an alternate route.

One resident said,...