Manikganj, Oct. 18 -- A bamboo bridge over the Ichamati River is the only dependable crossing for around 25 villages in Shibaloy upazila, forcing thousands of people to risk their lives every day to reach schools, markets, hospitals and government offices, as locals demand a permanent bridge.

The makeshift bridge, near Amdala Bazar, becomes particularly dangerous during the rainy season, leaving students, farmers, patients and other residents vulnerable to accidents while crossing the river. Several people have reportedly been injured after slipping and falling from the bridge.

The river separates Ulayel union from Arua union, with educational institutions, markets, the Paturia ferry terminal, a fire station and other important faciliti...