Concerns have been raised over the theft of metal rods and other components from the walkway of Kaikartek Bridge in Narayanganj, where sections of the concrete slabs are allegedly being broken in broad daylight.
The bridge, built over the Brahmaputra River at the junction of Sonargaon and Bandar upazilas, is an important route connecting the two areas. Local residents allege that a group of troublemakers and people with drug-related problems are using bricks and hammers to break the walkway slabs and remove metal rods and other fittings. The damage has left parts of the walkway unsafe, raising fears of accidents among pedestrians.
Residents said attempts to prevent the alleged theft have sometimes resulted in threats. The reported damage to a public structure has caused anger in the local community, with residents calling for immediate action to stop the theft and make the bridge safe again.
Kaikartek Bridge is used regularly by people travelling between Sonargaon and Bandar. Its location beside the Brahmaputra River has also made it a popular spot for local visitors. Families and groups often come to the area in the afternoon, particularly because of the riverside surroundings.
Another major attraction nearby is the century-old Kaikartek Hat, which draws traders and customers from different parts of the country. The market remains busy with the movement of buyers and sellers, adding to the number of people who use the bridge and its walkway.
Residents fear that the damaged sections could pose a serious risk, particularly where broken slabs have left holes along the walkway. A pedestrian who fails to notice a damaged section could potentially fall through it, especially when visibility is poor.
Local resident Aman-Ullah said large numbers of people visit the bridge every day, yet people struggling with drug addiction were allegedly breaking the walkway slabs with bricks and hammers to remove the rods. He claimed the stolen materials were later sold to scrap dealers. According to him, those who try to stop the activity can face threats.
Another resident, Riazul Karim, said the bridge serves an important transport function for people in both Bandar and Sonargaon, while also being a recreational destination. He said damaging the structure to obtain money for drugs could not be accepted and warned that the holes created by removing the slabs could lead to a serious accident at any time.
The allegations have also drawn the attention of the Roads and Highways Department in Narayanganj. Executive Engineer Abdur Rahim said he had not previously been aware of the matter. He said arrangements would be made to inspect the bridge after gathering information from the site and that legal action would be taken against anyone found responsible for damaging public property.
Sonargaon Police Station officer-in-charge (OC) Abdul Bariq said no written complaint had so far been filed with the police regarding the alleged theft. However, he said the matter was being treated seriously. Anti-drug drives are conducted in the area from time to time, he said, adding that efforts would be made to identify those involved in the theft of the bridge’s components and bring them under the law.
Residents are now seeking prompt intervention from the authorities. They want the damaged sections of the walkway repaired and measures taken to prevent further removal of public property. With the bridge serving both as a transport link and a popular gathering place, they say ensuring the safety of pedestrians should be addressed alongside efforts to identify those responsible for the damage.
