A video showing schoolchildren crossing a dangerous unfinished bridge in Chhattisgarh has gone viral on social media. The clip shows children carrying school bags as they carefully climb a narrow iron ladder fixed to a pillar, walk through an unfinished section, and cross above a swollen river to reach their schools.

Children Cross Bridge Above Swollen River

The incident is reported to be from Mainpur block in Gariyaband district, around 190 km southeast of capital Raipur. For children in Khambhatha and nearby villages, the dangerous crossing has become a regular part of their journey to school, especially during the monsoon. The children have to cross Pairi river, which is around 20 feet below the crossing. During the rainy season, the route becomes riskier due to the rise in water levels.

Six Years, But Bridge Is Still Incomplete

According to reports, the nearly 300-metre bridge connecting Deharguda and Khambhatha has been under construction for about six years. The bridge is located around 5 km from Mainpur tehsil headquarters. The construction has been slow despite repeated complaints from villagers and inspections by officials.

ALSO READ: Gold Medals Behind, Vegetables At Front: Athlete's Struggle Sparks Concerns After Roadside Ranchi Stall Video Goes Viral

Villagers claim that the exposed iron rods have already injured people. The ladder also becomes slippery during rain, increasing the risk for children and other residents. According to locals, the river becomes shallow during winter while large parts of its bed turn into sand in summer. During these times, they cross it on foot or use bicycles and motorcycles.

Officials Promised Action

It is reported that the condition of the bridge had already been brought to the attention of officials. Elected representatives and then collector had visited the site about a year and ago. They had asked the contractor to speed up the construction, and the villagers were told that the bridge would be completed within about six months.

However, that deadline has passed, and the work is still incomplete. According to a TOI report, villagers have now warned that they may block the national highway if the administration does not take immediate action. Meanwhile, Gariyaband collector Ranbir Sharma said he would visit the site and review the situation.

ALSO READ: Kolkata Man’s Wholesome Proposal To Girlfriend At Shreya Ghoshal’s Concert Sets New Bar For Relationship Goals | Viral Video