Residents of Melapravu village in the Bodinayakanur assembly constituency are eagerly anticipating the realization of their long-standing dream-a bridge over the Kottakudi River. The construction of this high-level bridge commenced on August 11, 2023, initiated by the Anaikaraipatti village panchayat at a cost of Rs 3.38 crore, with expectations to conclude the project by February 2025.
Melapravu, home to approximately 50 families of the ‘Paliyar’ community who primarily work as farmhands, faces challenges during periods of river spate. The Kottakudi River poses a threat, making it difficult for them to reach their workplaces in Uthamparai or Periyasolai. Crossing the overflowing river is perilous, and the alternative 15-km detour adds significant inconvenience to their daily lives.
Even accessing essential services like the nearest ration shop in Mundal becomes a daunting task during the rainy season, compelling villagers to undertake the extra 15 km journey for groceries. For years, they had been appealing to the district collector and elected representatives for a bridge. The New Indian Express reported on their plight in September 2022.
In response, the Anaikaraipatti village panchayat deliberated on the matter, leading to the commencement of bridge construction in August. District Collector RV Shajeevana stated that the project was initiated under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) phase-3, featuring a bridge with three spans each measuring 14.6 meters in length. Due to heavy water flow in the river, construction has been temporarily halted. Shajeevana expressed that some residents, unaware of the ongoing construction, have falsely claimed that the district administration is neglecting their needs.
Annaikarai Panchayat President G Loganathan assured that the panchayat is actively overseeing the bridge construction. He mentioned, “Soon, the tribal hamlet will get a secure and short pathway over the river.”