Rayagada: The suspension bridge over river Nagabali, also known as Hanging Bridge of Rayagada district, which has remained a major tourist attraction since its inauguration is slowly turning into a dangerous spot for tourists.
With the death of many tourists in the bridge over various reasons, the tourist spot is slowly turning into a death zone. In the past five years, after the inauguration of the bridge in 2013, at least 22 tourists have lost their lives by falling from the bridge while taking selfies.
Known for its scenic beauty, Rayagada district is hub to many tourist spots. The 151-metre long suspension bridge, constructed above 100 metres over the Nagabali river is another major attraction in the district.
Visitors throng the place in huge numbers to enjoy the scenic panorama of the area while standing on the bridge. However, resentment is brewing among local residents following death of tourists.
Though the administration claims to have installed a caution signage, such measures have not proved enough keeping in view the increase in casualties.
“The tourists stand on slippery rocks to take selfies and get swept away in the river. Though, so many deaths have happened, the district administration is yet to take a stringent step to contain the mishap,” a tourist said.
“It is a beautiful place, but no security guards have been deployed for which mishaps occur,” said another tourist.
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Debasish Panda, a local resident stated that “The entire exercise to ensure safety is limited to installation of signboards. Every other day we are coming across news regarding death of tourists here.”
The administrations should put up boards to make visitors aware and refrain them from taking selfies in dangerous spots.
However, Rayagada Fire Officer, Kavindra Sunani informed that despite cautionary signage, tourists are misjudging the water level of the river and do not follow the instructions. As there are sharp stones, precious lives are being lost while they enter to take selfies, he added.
“There have been mishaps while taking selfies on the bridge or bathing in the river. We will apprise senior officials and request for deployment of home guards at the site,” said Inspector-in-Charge of Rayagada Town Police Station, Krushna Chandra Bhatra.
A tourist from Andhra Pradesh got swept away after he slipped and fell into the river while taking a selfie December 7.
PNN
