Prakasha, January 31, 2025 – The closure of the old Gomai River bridge on the Damarkheda-Shahada route has left commuters, particularly students and workers, facing significant hardships. The bridge, which was shut on March 1, 2024, due to its deteriorating condition, was a crucial link for travelers between Prakasha and Shahada. With the closure of the bridge, travelers are forced to take longer detours, increasing both time and transportation costs.
Students preparing for upcoming board exams are particularly affected, as they are now required to take alternate routes through Katharde, Bhada, Lonkheda, and other villages to reach Shahada. The additional travel time and increased fare have led to growing frustration among local residents, with many questioning why the state-run buses were not allowed to operate on the old bridge while repairs were being carried out.
Adding to the situation, the construction of a new bridge near the same site has been stalled for over 10 months, further exacerbating the travel woes. The lack of progress on the project has sparked protests from locals, especially with the exams fast approaching and the summer season setting in.
Local residents are now planning to stage demonstrations, demanding the restoration of the old bridge for bus services or an immediate resolution to the stalled construction of the new bridge. Despite heavy traffic from large vehicles continuing to pass through the old bridge, public transportation remains suspended, further intensifying commuter grievances.
With no action yet taken by the Roads Development Corporation, residents of Prakasha are left to wonder how much longer they will have to endure these challenges.