The long pending construction of the Mohan Setu bridge, intended to link Mau and Deoria districts in Uttar Pradesh, remains unfinished even after 12 years. Designed to connect the riverine region of Devranchal, the bridge was expected to transform regional connectivity. However, the prolonged delay has turned daily commuting into a severe ordeal for local residents. What should ideally be a short 5 km journey across the river now forces villagers to undertake an exhausting 20 to 35 km detour. The lack of a completed bridge severely impacts access to essential services, especially during emergency medical situations when patients require immediate medical intervention.
Long Hours Waiting for Boats to Access Barhaj Market
For villagers living in the Devranchal belt, the town of Barhaj serves as the primary commercial hub for daily household needs and trade. To reach the market, commuters must cross the river separating the two districts. Currently, only two wooden boats operate along this stretch. According to local resident Ramanand, heading to the market consumes an entire day. Commuters often spend three to four hours sitting under the intense sun along the riverbank waiting for a boat to arrive. The alternative land route requires traveling a distance of 20 to 35 km around the river. Due to the high fuel costs and long travel time on the alternate route, most villagers are forced to rely on the limited boat services despite the hours lost in waiting.
Foundation Stone Laid on February 28, 2014 Under Uttar Pradesh Setu Nigam
The groundwork for this infrastructure project began over a decade ago. Local resident Chandpal stated that the foundation stone for the Mohan Setu was officially laid on February 28, 2014. Named in memory of the Late Mohan Singh, the proposed bridge structure spans approximately 12108 meters in length, with construction assigned to the Uttar Pradesh Rajya Setu Nigam. When work initially commenced in 2014, residents anticipated a swift end to their isolation. However, twelve years later, key portions of the bridge remain incomplete. Despite repeated visits and assurances from local political representatives over the years, physical progress on the site has remained virtually stalled.
Medical Emergency Risks and Annual Flood Erosion Hazards
The absence of a functional bridge presents a critical hazard during medical emergencies. When a resident falls seriously ill, transporting them to a hospital in a timely manner becomes a life threatening challenge due to boat delays or the long detour. Furthermore, local residents Guddu Yadav and Narsingh pointed out that the region faces severe soil erosion during the annual flood season. Instead of installing permanent stone pitching along the banks, authorities merely place sandbags, which quickly get washed away by strong river currents. Local inhabitants emphasize that finishing the Mohan Setu bridge would resolve their fundamental transport and safety challenges while simultaneously opening up fresh economic and employment opportunities across the region.
