Odisha Man Uses His Pension Savings To Build Bridge Left Unfinished By Govt For 14 Years!

Many of us have found ourselves complaining about ruptured roads, numerous potholes, and other unfinished infrastructure that the government seems to take forever to complete. Something like an incomplete flyover in the middle of the city tends to create a ruckus, leaving citizens frustrated. So imagine the plight of the people living in Kanpur village in Keonjhar district, Odisha, where an immediately required crucial bridge has been under construction since the past 14 years.

Hence, frustrated by the government’s indifference, a local named Gangadhar Rout used the saving from his pension to build a bridge over Salandi river which connects 6 villages to the mainland and benefits nearly 10,000 people!

According to sources, Rout spent most of his savings – around 12 lakhs, to help complete the bridge. His action was inspired by 76-year-old Daitari Nayak of his district who carved out a 3km long canal through the hills.

The construction of the bridge was initially taken up by Hatadihi block administration a decade back but came to a halt due to insufficient funds. Despite repeated requests to the government and private organisations, no action was taken. The villagers had to cross the river via a boat or had to take unsafe routes. Therefore, Rout decided to step up and made sure the bridge was ready before the monsoon.

“The bridge was a necessity for six villages as the residents have been facing untold miseries during the rainy season”, he said.

Rout had used all his savings that came from his pension, gratuity, leave surrender, and general provident fund for the bridge. He had saved the amount for a car he wished to buy earlier.

“My family had thought of buying a car with the money. But when I expressed my desire to spend it for completion of the bridge, they did not object. The work gives me and my family members immense pleasure. Now, I can live my rest of life in peace with the feeling that my hard-earned money was utilised for a noble cause.”

Sources revealed that nine spans of the bridge have been completed along with the roofing. After completion, the bridge would directly connect the villages of Kanpur, Soso, Daneipur, Padhiaripally, Niudani and Maichapada.

For his generous contribution, Rout is now called the “bridge-man” and the locals treat him like a “messiah” or savior. We hope his gesture inspired many!