Footbridge adjacent to La Meridien in Nikunja dangerously at risk, residents issue repair ultimatum

The footbridge near La Meridien Hotel in the Khilkhet-Nikunja area of Dhaka has been in a severely hazardous condition for the past two months. Nearly two months ago, a crane-laden truck struck the bridge, bending its structure. Despite the bridge leaning dangerously ever since, the relevant authorities have taken no steps for repair or restoration. Every day, thousands of pedestrians are crossing the bridge at great personal risk.

Angered by the situation, local residents organised a protest rally and human chain on Saturday (October 11) under the banner of ‘People of All Sections of Khilkhet-Nikunja’. Several thousand people from Nikunja, Tanpara, Jamtola, Puraton Bazar, Sarkarbari, Namapara, Lakeside City and Khapara participated, presenting five key demands.

Speakers at the human chain said, “We are exhausted from hearing false assurances from the authorities over a prolonged period. The current state of the bridge is alarming. Who will be held responsible if a major accident occurs at any moment?”

They issued a 72-hour ultimatum demanding immediate action for repair or reconstruction. The speakers also warned of stricter protests if no action is taken within this period.

Participants further claimed that it is not only the La Meridien footbridge that is in disrepair; the footbridge near Khilkhet Bus Stand is also dilapidated. Both bridges urgently need repair, and they demanded the construction of modern, fully-equipped bridges for the future.

In their words, “No more risky crossings; this time we demand safe and permanent solutions.”

Residents stressed that the movement has demonstrated the general public’s unity in ensuring their own safety and readiness to escalate into larger protests if necessary.

The five-point demand from the protestors included: immediate repair and reconstruction of the bridge; expansion of the footbridge alongside the railway line for safe pedestrian movement; widening of stairs on both sides with covered waiting areas; installation of ramps or lifts for the elderly and disabled; adequate lighting and CCTV cameras; and the formation of a permanent monitoring team for regular maintenance.

Speakers at the rally included Ziaur Rahman, Rishad Mahmud, Ridwan Alvi, Ahmed Sultan, Mukul Hossain Mridha, Md. Zaidul Haque, A M Ayub, Engineer Main Uddin Jahangir, Md. Zakir Bhuiya, Md. Solimullah, Imanul Haque, Shams Sohel, Wahiduzzaman Sumon, Nurul Amin Majumdar, Md. Saiful Islam and Rahmatullah Rahat.

The event was moderated by Engineer Md. Nazrul Islam.