Demand to Keep Vikramshila Bailey Bridge Operational Until Durga Puja, Diwali and Chhath Former MLA Candidate Shailesh Kumar and RJD Leaders Say Closure Would Cause Major Inconvenience to People on Both Banks of the Ganga
Naugachhia : Former Naugachhia MLA candidate Shailesh Kumar, along with other leaders of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), has demanded that the Vikramshila Bailey Bridge remain operational at least until the upcoming Durga Puja, Diwali and Chhath Mahaparva. The leaders said the bridge is an important transportation link for people living on both banks of the Ganga. With the movement of people increasing significantly during the festive season, shutting down the bridge could cause serious inconvenience to residents, traders, students and patients.
The RJD leaders said that during the festive period, a large number of people travel between Bhagalpur, Naugachhia and surrounding areas. Many families have relatives living on the opposite bank of the Ganga. Maintaining a direct route during this period would provide considerable convenience. If the Bailey Bridge is closed, people would be forced to use alternative routes, increasing both travel distance and journey time.
Traffic Movement Increases During Festivals
Shailesh Kumar said Durga Puja, Diwali and Chhath are among the major festivals celebrated across Bihar. During these occasions, markets become crowded and the number of private vehicles and public transport services also increases. People from rural areas travel to towns and cities for shopping, religious activities and other essential work.
He said closing the Bailey Bridge just before the festive season would force people to take considerably longer routes. This would increase both travel time and fuel consumption. At the same time, additional traffic on alternative routes could lead to severe congestion.
Important Link Between Both Banks of the Ganga
The RJD leaders said the Vikramshila Bailey Bridge is more than just a bridge; it is an important link connecting communities on both sides of the Ganga. It plays a significant role for residents of the Naugachhia and Bhagalpur areas. The bridge facilitates travel related to business, education, healthcare and daily needs.
They said people who need to cross the Ganga regularly for essential work would face the greatest difficulties if the bridge is closed. Transporting patients to hospitals, commuting for education and travelling for small businesses could all become more challenging.
Special Importance During Chhath
The leaders specifically highlighted the importance of the bridge during the Chhath festival. A large number of devotees travel to Ganga ghats during the festival, while family members also return home from distant places.
They said maintaining major transportation routes during this period is essential. The administration and concerned departments were urged to regularly inspect the condition of the bridge and, if technically feasible, keep it operational until the festivals. Traffic can be regulated through proper management without compromising safety, they said.
Demand for Government and Administrative Intervention
The RJD leaders urged the state government and district administration to take immediate action. They said that if there are any technical or structural concerns regarding the bridge, these should be addressed at the earliest. Repair and maintenance work should also be given priority.
The leaders said it is the responsibility of the administration to prevent unnecessary difficulties for the public during the festive season. They also called for timely planning of alternative arrangements and traffic management measures.
