Collapsed bridge disrupts movement, economic activities in Taraba communities

Residents Urge Quick Action to Rebuild Collapsed Bridge in Taraba State

JALINGO, Taraba State—Residents of Jalingo and Yorro Local Government Councils are calling on their National Assembly representatives to expedite the reconstruction of the Mallam Audu Bridge. This bridge, a key connection between the two councils, was washed away during heavy rainfall, creating significant travel disruptions.

The bridge, also referred to as Gadan Mallam Audu, was fully submerged after hours of rain, severing the most direct route linking Jalingo, the state capital, to Pantisawa, the administrative center of Yorro Council.

Local residents report that the bridge’s collapse has resulted in severe transportation issues, leaving many stranded and forcing commuters to rely on longer, challenging detours. The bridge previously served as an essential corridor for students, government employees, traders, and farmers seeking to transport goods from the Yorro Mountain region to markets in Jalingo.

The disruption has not only impacted mobility but has also hampered commercial activities and access to vital services. On Tuesday, residents voiced their concerns, urging the senator for Taraba North and the representative for the Jalingo, Yorro, and Zing federal constituency to engage relevant authorities promptly.

Ishaka Bala, a local resident, called the bridge an economic lifeline, stressing its critical role in daily life. “The collapsed bridge has disrupted transportation, economic activities, and access to healthcare, education, and other essential services. We appeal to our representatives to intervene and ensure rapid reconstruction,” Bala said.

He emphasized that prompt action from lawmakers could alleviate the hardships faced by affected residents. Another local, Musa Kasuwa, said the bridge was initially built with the assistance of a former National Assembly member and pointed out that structural weaknesses had been apparent for months before its failure.

“We are urging our senator and House representative to follow in their predecessor’s footsteps by facilitating the bridge’s reconstruction,” Kasuwa stated. “Movement from Yorro to Jalingo has become extremely difficult.”

In addition to appealing to federal lawmakers, residents are asking the Taraba State Government to establish a temporary access route to alleviate transportation challenges until the bridge can be fully rebuilt.

As the rainy season progresses, community members express concern that ongoing inaction may further isolate settlements, exacerbate economic losses, and limit access to essential public services.

For now, residents remain hopeful that swift measures will be taken to restore this critical link between the Jalingo and Yorro communities.

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