31 Years On, Purnapadu Bridge Still Incomplete, Triggers Protest in Manyam

 Visakhapatnam: The Purnapadu–Labesu bridge, promised more than three decades ago, has become a symbol of neglect and broken promises in Parvathipuram Manyam district, with tribal communities renewing their demand for its completion.

The bridge was first announced in 1995 after 36 tribal people lost their lives when a country boat capsized in the Nagavali River near Vanija village in Odisha. Then minister Devender Goud of the Telugu Desam government had promised to construct the bridge to prevent such tragedies.

Construction began after CPM MLA Kolaka Lakshmana Murthy raised the issue in the Assembly in 2006, and funds were sanctioned for the project. However, only 70 per cent of the work has been completed, while the remaining 30 per cent has remained stalled for years, leaving residents dependent on dangerous river crossings.

The Purnapadu–Labesu Bridge Sadhana Committee has intensified its campaign through protests and public mobilisation, demanding immediate completion of the bridge.

Committee member K. Sambamurthy said sustained public agitation was essential to compel the government to release funds and finish the project. He urged people to join the movement and press for early completion.

The committee organised a three-day padayatra from Purnapadu to the camp office of Kurupam MLA Thoyaka Jagadeeswari at Gummalakshmipuram on July 2, 3 and 4. Residents from nine panchayats and 40 villages took part in the march.

The padayatra was inaugurated by S. Punyavathi, national leader of the All India Democratic Women's Association.

“For the people of Komarada mandal in Parvathipuram Manyam district, the incomplete bridge is not just an unfinished project; it is a daily ordeal. Every crossing of the Nagavali River carries risk, and each year of delay deepens their sense of betrayal,” said Punyavathi.