Paharia Region Dhopachhari: SACO Renovation Work Begins

Photo: CNI

Chattogram Correspondent:
Renovation Work Begins on SACO in Paharia Region, Dhopachhari

Reaching the remote Paharia-inhabited Dhopachhari region once used to take an entire day. Travelers had to navigate rough trails on foot or cross via manual boats on the Shongkhnodi River, taking hours to reach the area along the foothills of Chandanai’s eastern boundary.

In November 2023, a wooden SACO (footbridge) measuring 100 meters in length and 7 feet in width was constructed alongside the Dhopachhari market canal at a cost of Tk 16 lakh, funded by the Upazila Parishad. However, on May 22 this year, heavy floods damaged the bridge, leaving it broken and disrupting connectivity between the two riverbanks.

Under the initiative of the Upazila Administration, repair work has now begun with a budget allocation of Tk 5.8 lakh from TR Kabika funds. The work was inaugurated by Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Md. Rajib Hossain, accompanied by Upazila Project Implementation Officer Mahbub Alam Shawon. The inspection was also attended by Acting Chairman Latifa Akter, Mozibul Haque Khoka, Mozammel Haque, and others.

The SACO serves as a critical connection for areas like Purbo Dhopachhari Shongkher Muk, Camppara, and Shamukchhari, linking the region with Bandarban. Local hill communities, who sustain their livelihoods by cutting wood from nearby forests, and transporting fruits, vegetables, and other produce to Dhopachhari market, heavily rely on this bridge.

During the inspection, UNO Md. Rajib Hossain stated that while the current work focuses on repairing the SACO, plans are underway to upgrade it into a proper bridge in phases to ensure long-term connectivity and safety for the region.