Saryu bridge at Bageshwar–Pithoragarh border to end 90 km detour for villagers

Bageshwar: A motorable bridge under construction over the Saryu river near Sateshwar on the Bageshwar–Pithoragarh border is expected to transform connectivity for remote villages in Pithoragarh district. Officials said the ₹12-crore project is likely to be completed by November.For decades, a narrow pedestrian bridge was the only link across the river, forcing villagers to risk their safety daily. Residents now see the new bridge as long-awaited relief. The project will cut down a 90-km detour, offering a direct 15-km route to Bageshwar.“For us, Bageshwar is just 15 km away, but without a motor bridge, we travel nearly 90 km. This bridge will change everything,” said Santosh Kumar of Batgali village, adding that ambulances and school transport would finally reach their doorstep.Villagers, however, stressed that connectivity alone may not solve their challenges. Many demanded administrative realignment to merge their villages with Bageshwar district, easing access to govt services. Currently, even minor official work requires travel to Pithoragarh headquarters, costing families up to ₹5,000 per visit.“Govt schemes reach us very late. Merging with Bageshwar could benefit 25–30 villages,” a local resident said.Meenakshi Mehta of Naghar village noted the bridge would make markets and essential goods more accessible. “We will finally be able to travel to Bageshwar town without difficulty. Life will become easier,” she said.Despite a hydropower project bringing road access six years ago, basic infrastructure remains lacking. “Children still walk 10–12 km to school, and many facilities have not reached us,” said Kailash Chandra, another resident.Locals also believe the bridge could unlock tourism potential, as the region is home to several ancient temples that remain largely unexplored due to poor connectivity. Improved access is expected to boost religious tourism and bring wider recognition to the area.“The project will benefit thousands of people living in the border villages,” said executive engineer Dinesh Gupta.