, Sept. 13 -- A newly built bridge over a canal in Sundarganj upazila of Gaibandha has remained virtually unusable due to the absence of approach roads on either side, leaving several hundred local residents in prolonged distress.

The structure, constructed under the Department of Disaster Management during the 2023-24 fiscal year, was completed six months ago in Ghaghoa village under Tarapur Union.

Yet, no earth-filling was done to connect it to nearby roads, rendering it little more than a concrete span over water.

Students, teachers and pedestrians in the surrounding areas are bearing the brunt, struggling to cross safely. With schools, madrasas, markets and homes located on both sides of the canal, locals say the bridge's potential...