A bridge in fallen Maoist HQ Abujmarh is new symbol of change in once forbidden zone

Nagpur: An improvised 60metre-long bridge built by C-60 commandos and tribal villagers in the heart of the fallen Maoist headquarters of Abujmarh has emerged as a symbol of the changing ground reality in the once booby-trapped forbidden zone. Straddling a deep ravine where waters swell and maroon the picturesque Binagonda for six months during the monsoon, the bridge is a lifeline for villagers, particularly schoolchildren, pregnant mothers and critically ill patients.The bridge was constructed on a war footing in the dense forests by bundling mammoth cement pipes with cranes and then deploying tractors and bulldozers to smoothen tonnes of gravel and ‘murrum’ to fortify the structure. Binaguna was a strategic point in the Red Corridor — impregnable for four decades.Despite its breathtaking natural beauty that earned Binagunda the epithet of ‘Kashmir of Vidarbha’, the region was in the blind spot of development. The change gathered momentum following the March 31 deadline set by Union home minister Amit Shah to eliminate Left-Wing Extremism. With the Maoist network smashed, civic infrastructure is expanding into these remote areas.On October 22, security personnel from Binagunda police assistance centre, Central Reserve Police Force, State Reserve Police Force and elite C-60 commandos joined hands with villagers to construct the bridge.Pregnant women, senior citizens and patients requiring urgent medical attention will benefit from improved access to healthcare. It will also make daily movement easy for villagers, particularly schoolchildren cycling to the mainland.“The significance of the project extends beyond connectivity. Security personnel who were once ambushed with explosives and concealed traps are now working shoulder to shoulder with locals to address their everyday problems,” said SP Gadchiroli M Ramesh.“The establishment of a police post at Binagunda further strengthened the state’s presence in the remote region,” said the SP.A similar bridge was constructed at remote Nelgunda on September 13 with community participation. As security operations continue and vigilance remains high on possible Maoist movement from neighbouring Chhattisgarh, the bridge sends a powerful message on the transformation of Abujmarh.“It’s not merely about reclaiming territory from guerrillas, but about connecting isolated communities with education, healthcare and development,” said Ramesh.You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Nagpur | Silver Rate in Nagpur | Bank Holidays in Nagpur | Public Holidays in Nagpur | Petrol Price in Nagpur | Diesel Price in Nagpur | CNG Price in Nagpur | LPG Price in NagpurStay updated with the latest Nagpur news. Download the TOI App.