Archive · 25 Aug 2026
Malkangiri Villages Still Struggle for Safe Last-Mile Connectivity
The Gurupriya bridge helped connect many remote parts of Malkangiri to the outside world.
However, some smaller villages are still separated from important places by a river.
During the rainy season, the Suapalli river becomes deep and fast.
People from Nerudupalli and Suapalli must cross it to reach farms, schools, markets and healthcare.
Two Anganwadi workers cross the river every day to reach children at their centres.
They use dried bottle gourds tied around their bodies to help them float.
This crossing can be very dangerous, especially when the water moves quickly.
Officials are expected to study the problem and consider a safer permanent crossing or temporary boat service.
Villages in Chitrakonda block remain difficult to access despite the Gurupriya bridge improving regional connectivity.
During the monsoon, residents of Nerudupalli and Suapalli cross the swollen Suapalli river to reach fields, schools, markets and healthcare.
Two Anganwadi workers cross the river daily using traditional flotation gourds called “lau-tumba.”
Hundreds of villagers depend on the dangerous crossing, with strong currents posing a risk of potentially fatal accidents.
Residents are seeking a permanent all-weather solution, while the administration says it will assess the situation before taking action.
- Who
- Residents of Nerudupalli and Suapalli, including two Anganwadi workers, are affected; the Malkangiri administration is expected to assess the situation.
- What
- Villagers continue to rely on a dangerous monsoon crossing of the Suapalli river despite improved regional connectivity from the Gurupriya bridge.
- When
- The problem is most severe during the monsoon, when the river is swollen.
- Where
- Nerudupalli and Suapalli villages under Ralegadda panchayat in Chitrakonda block, Malkangiri.
- Why
- The villages lack a safe, all-weather last-mile connection to agricultural fields, schools, markets and healthcare facilities across the river.
- Affected villages
- Nerudupalli and Suapalli
- Administrative area
- Ralegadda panchayat, Chitrakonda block, Malkangiri
- River crossing
- Suapalli river
- Traditional flotation aid
- “Lau-tumba,” made from dried bottle gourds
- Workers affected
- Two Anganwadi workers cross the river daily during the rainy season
- Proposed solutions
- A footbridge, small motorable bridge or scientifically designed crossing, depending on local conditions
- Temporary monsoon measure
- Equipped motorboats with trained operators and life-saving gear
- Administrative response
- The Additional District Magistrate (General) said the administration will assess the situation before taking action