80,000 people, one dangerous river crossing: Bihar's daily struggle caught on camera

In Bihar's Araria district, crossing the Bakra River at Bandob Ghat remains a daily gamble for thousands of villagers. With no bridge connecting several panchayats, residents depend on overcrowded boats and ropes to reach schools, markets, hospitals and other essential services.

The situation becomes even more dangerous during the monsoon, when rainfall in Nepal's Terai region raises the river's water level, increasing the risk for commuters.

Villagers say they have repeatedly appealed to elected representatives and district authorities for a permanent bridge but claim they have received only assurances without any concrete action.

Residents estimate that nearly 70,000 to 80,000 people across six to seven panchayats are affected. They say the lack of a bridge forces them to take a 30-kilometre detour instead of travelling just 10 kilometres.

Locals also claim poor connectivity has begun affecting marriage prospects and access to markets, the Eidgah and the cemetery. For Bandob Ghat residents, a permanent bridge remains a long-awaited lifeline.