Sonahat Bridge at Risk as Heavy Trucks Defy Weight Ban

The historic Sonahat Bridge in Bhurungamari, Kurigram, is facing an imminent risk of collapse as heavy vehicles continue to defy official weight restrictions. Despite a ban on loads exceeding 10 tons, trucks carrying up to 30 tons are frequently crossing the fragile structure, sparking fears of a major disaster.

Built during the British colonial era over the Dudhkumar River, the bridge serves as a vital link for 10 unions across Nageshwari and Bhurungamari Upazilas. It is also the primary transit point for the Sonahat Land Port. However, the bridge has become dangerously dilapidated over time.

On January 9, 2025, the local administration and the Roads and Highways Department (RHD) held a meeting where it was decided that vehicles carrying more than 17 tons (400 SFT of goods) would be prohibited. Despite this, locals report that 10-wheeled trucks, often carrying double the allowed weight, continue to ply the bridge.

"A local syndicate is facilitating the movement of these heavy trucks for profit, ignoring the safety of thousands," alleged a resident who requested anonymity.

With Eid-ul-Fitr approaching, locals fear the bridge could fail during the holiday rush when thousands of migrant workers return home. "If the bridge collapses now, our suffering will be immeasurable," said Mamun, a resident of Sonahat Union.

Bhurungamari Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Shahadat Hossain stated that such violations are unacceptable. "We will coordinate with the RHD to conduct mobile courts and ensure all vehicles comply with the weight limits," he said.

Nizam Uddin, Executive Engineer of Kurigram RHD, noted that a new bridge is currently under construction to the south of the old structure. "Construction is expected to finish this year. In the meantime, we have performed several rounds of emergency repairs on the old bridge to keep it operational," he added.