KOCHI: The dilapidated condition of the narrow Chambakkara Market Bow-String bridge – a vital link between Eroor West and the Chambakkara market side – has become a matter of growing concern for local residents who fear that repeated temporary repairs are no longer enough to ensure its safety.
Built around 25 years ago following the intervention of then MLA K Babu to facilitate commute from both sides, the bridge has since undergone temporary repair work several times.
Residents say they have lost count of the number of times it has been repaired. “Both the corporation and the municipality refuse to take ownership of this rusty bridge. It has, therefore, remained neglected for years, despite huge cracks blocking the way,” said Robert, a fish vendor, pointing to a large crack at the beginning of the bridge that has been temporarily ‘fixed’ with a wooden piece.
Residents said the bridge is a common route for the fisherfolk community in Eroor West, many of whom depend on it to commute to work. The deteriorating surface has also made it difficult for elderly people to cross safely, while autorickshaws carrying students regularly use the narrow bridge to reach schools on the other side.
“Several residents and students of Bhavan’s school (Eroor) use this route, which remains busy throughout the day. It is scary to watch vehicles packed with students pass through this narrow bridge. It could turn into a disaster any day,” said Mini, an entrepreneur and local resident.
Residents said the bridge has also been caught up in a political dispute, leaving the public to bear the consequences. They have been waiting for a safer alternative for years.
“Rebuilding this bridge for vehicular traffic is not an option. A proposal that was earlier said to have been approved still remains in limbo. The proposal for a bridge connecting the Periyakkadu road to the other end should be activated to resolve the situation,” said Santhosh, another resident.
The lack of adequate lighting is another concern. Residents said autorickshaws and cab services are often unwilling to cross the bridge after evening. Though the bridge was intended primarily as a walkable link, residents say its present condition has made even pedestrian movement hazardous.“The lights here are not functional most of the time. At night, it feels like looking into an abyss because you cannot even see the bridge properly. The murkiness caused by market leftovers, combined with the potholes and unsafe condition of the bridge, makes it difficult to cross,” added Mini.
