Funds dry up, bridge work stalls; authorities install temporary footbridge using pipes in Idukki

Idukki: Relief has finally come for the residents of Edamalakkudy, who had been forced to climb down from an unfinished bridge directly into the river. Authorities have now put in place a temporary arrangement to help people reach the riverbank safely.

Work on the bridge across the Manaliyar River had stopped midway due to a lack of funds. As an interim measure, iron pipes have been laid across the incomplete section, allowing residents to walk across to the bank instead of wading into the river.

Earlier, on October 17, Manorama reported on the unique bridge, which had been partially constructed with two pillars across the river, iron sheets on the middle portion and an iron ladder at the far end, forcing people to climb down into the river to continue their journey to the opposite bank.

Following the widespread attention the story received, the panchayat authorities acted to create a safer footbridge connecting the half-built structure directly to the riverbank. The bridge, built at a cost of ₹15 lakh, is located near Societykudi, the headquarters of the local body.

The bridge was originally intended to link the settlements of Meenkuthi, Kandahikudi, Kavakkattukudi and Kudallar.