Neglected Bailey Bridge Collapses in Dhobaura

A long-standing and structurally vulnerable Bailey bridge has finally collapsed in the Dhobaura upazila of Mymensingh, bringing road communication with the district headquarters to a complete halt and exposing years of alleged neglect in infrastructure maintenance.

The 25-year-old bridge, situated over the fast-flowing Kangs River in the village of Goatla, had been classified as risky for a prolonged period by the Local Government Engineering Department (LGED). Warning signage had been installed at both ends clearly stating “dangerous bridge” and prohibiting the movement of heavy vehicles. Despite these restrictions, enforcement was virtually absent, allowing overloaded trucks to continue using the structure unchecked.

The bridge gave way early on Sunday morning under the pressure of an overloaded sand-carrying truck. Its collapse has severely disrupted connectivity between Dhobaura Upazila and the Mymensingh district town, forcing residents to rely on boats and alternative rural routes that are significantly longer and more difficult.

Local residents and professionals describe the bridge as having been in a fragile condition for years, with only minor and infrequent repairs carried out by authorities. Many argue that these temporary measures were insufficient given the constant pressure from heavy vehicles and the river’s strong seasonal currents.

Dhobaura, located near the Meghalaya border of India and close to the Garo Hills, is widely regarded as a region with untapped tourism potential due to its natural landscapes. However, poor transport infrastructure has long hindered development. The upazila is connected by crossings over both the Kangs and Netai rivers—both of which become particularly turbulent during the monsoon season—each supported by ageing and narrow Bailey bridges.

A local college teacher, Mokhlesur Rahman, who travels daily to teach in a nearby institution in Tarakanda, described the hardship caused by the collapse. He noted that he had to cross the Kangs River by small boat, along with students, women, and other commuters, all facing daily disruption until repairs are made.

Officials from the Dhobaura engineering office stated that higher authorities have been informed and that necessary steps will be taken as directed. In the meantime, residents continue to use boats and detours, though with considerable inconvenience.

Bridge Overview

Local political figure Syed Emran Saleh Prince, a member of the Mymensingh District Council and senior BNP leader, stated that he had contacted the chief engineer and urged immediate steps for reconstruction. He emphasised that restoring the bridge is now an urgent priority to ease public suffering and re-establish regional connectivity.