BridgeProject – Tribal Villagers Await Long-Promised Yeleru River Crossing

BridgeProject –  For hundreds of tribal residents in a remote village of Andhra Pradesh, crossing the Yeleru River continues to be a challenging part of everyday life as a sanctioned bridge project remains unfinished despite funding approval.

Residents of Panukurathipalem village in Addateegala mandal of Polavaram district have once again raised concerns over the delay in constructing a permanent bridge across the Yeleru River. Nearly 180 tribal families depend on the river crossing for access to nearby villages, essential services, and transportation. Villagers say the absence of a reliable bridge affects daily movement and creates safety risks, particularly during adverse weather conditions.

Demand for a Direct and Safer Route

According to local tribal communities, a bridge connecting Vetamamidi and Panukurathipalem would provide a much-needed direct route and improve connectivity for several surrounding habitations. Residents believe the proposed structure would significantly reduce travel time and offer a safer alternative to the existing arrangements.

Community members noted that while efforts were made during the previous administration to improve road access through forest areas, the project was never fully completed. They argue that the forest route is longer and less convenient for regular travel, making a bridge across the river the more practical solution.

Makeshift Wooden Structure Used by Villagers

In the absence of permanent infrastructure, residents have constructed and continue to use a temporary wooden bridge made from logs and planks. The improvised crossing helps villagers move between locations during normal weather conditions and serves as a critical link for daily activities.

However, locals point out that the temporary structure becomes increasingly risky during the monsoon season. Rising water levels and stronger river currents can make crossing dangerous, creating concerns for schoolchildren, elderly residents, and others who rely on the route regularly.

Project Yet to Move Beyond Tender Process

The bridge project had received financial approval from the NDA government, with an allocation of ₹4.61 crore earmarked for its construction. Despite the sanction of funds, residents claim that work has not commenced and that the proposal remains stalled in the tendering stage.

The prolonged delay has led to frustration among villagers, who have been waiting for years to see tangible progress on the project. Many believe that timely execution of the bridge would improve access to healthcare, education, markets, and government services while also strengthening overall connectivity in the tribal region.

MLA Assures Action on Pending Work

Responding to concerns raised by local residents, Rampachodavaram MLA Miriyala Sirisha Devi said the matter has been brought to the attention of the Tribal Welfare Department. She expressed confidence that steps would be taken to ensure construction of the bridge moves forward.

The MLA stated that efforts are being made to address the issue and indicated that the bridge is expected to be built within the current year. Her assurance has renewed hope among tribal families who have long been seeking a permanent solution to the transportation difficulties caused by the river crossing.

Villagers Hope for Early Completion

For the people of Panukurathipalem and neighboring villages, the proposed bridge represents more than just infrastructure. Residents see it as an essential development project that could improve safety, reduce travel hardships, and support the region’s long-term growth.

As monsoon conditions approach, villagers are hoping that administrative processes will be completed quickly and that construction work will begin without further delays