In Bidar, Karnataka, a crumbling bridge over the Karanja backwaters has become a daily nightmare for motorists. Known locally as the “Killer Bridge,” this vital link between Bidar and surrounding areas like Bhalki and Maharashtra is in such poor condition that people fear for their lives every time they cross it. Despite years of complaints and promises, the question remains: when will this dangerous structure finally be repaired?

A Bridge on the Brink

The Karanja backwater bridge, originally built decades ago, was once a reliable passage for commuters traveling between Bidar, Bhalki, and even parts of Maharashtra. But over time, neglect and wear have turned it into a death trap. The narrow design forces vehicles to crawl across, often leading to traffic jams that stretch for kilometers. Worse still, the bridge’s surface is riddled with potholes and cracks, making it a risky journey for two-wheelers, cars, and heavy trucks alike.

Locals say the situation has gone from bad to worse. Heavy rains worsen the damage, washing away parts of the road and leaving gaping holes. For those who rely on this route daily—like farmers, traders, and students—it’s not just an inconvenience; it’s a gamble with their safety.

A Community in Fear

“It’s terrifying,” says Shiva Sai, a regular commuter from Humnabad. “Every time I ride my bike across, I pray I make it to the other side. The bridge shakes, and you can hear it creaking under the weight of trucks.” Sai’s story isn’t unique—hundreds of residents echo the same fears. Accidents are all too common, with vehicles skidding off the edge or getting stuck in the uneven patches.

The bridge’s reputation as the “Killer Bridge” isn’t just a dramatic nickname. Over the years, it’s claimed lives and left many injured. Families in the area dread the day they’ll hear about yet another tragedy involving a loved one.

Why the Delay?

The people of Bidar have been pleading for repairs for over a decade. Politicians have made grand promises during election campaigns, but little has changed. The Karnataka government has floated plans to rebuild or widen the bridge, citing funding issues and bureaucratic delays as roadblocks. Meanwhile, a temporary fix—like patching up the worst potholes—hasn’t been enough to ease the danger.

In 2023, a proposal to construct a new bridge was approved, with an estimated budget of ₹50 crore. Yet, as of April 2025, construction hasn’t started. Residents suspect corruption or mismanagement is to blame, though officials insist they’re “working on it.” For those risking their lives daily, these excuses ring hollow.

A Call for Action

The frustration is palpable. Local activists and community leaders have staged protests, demanding immediate action. “How many more lives must be lost before they fix this bridge?” asks Hemalatha, a schoolteacher who crosses it every day. “We’re not asking for a favor—we’re asking for our right to safe travel.”

The Karanja backwater bridge isn’t just a local issue; it’s a lifeline connecting rural Bidar to larger markets and opportunities. Its collapse—whether literal or functional—could cripple the region’s economy and isolate entire communities.

What’s Next for Bidar’s Killer Bridge?

As the current date ticks to April 10, 2025, hope is fading fast. The monsoon season looms on the horizon, threatening to make the bridge even more treacherous. Without urgent repairs or a new structure, Bidar’s motorists will continue to hold their breath every time they cross.

Will the government step up before it’s too late? For now, the people of Bidar wait, pray, and wonder when their “Killer Bridge” will finally be laid to rest. Stay tuned for updates on this ongoing saga as the community fights for a safer tomorrow.

Imagine a once-dry lake in Karnataka’s Bidar city, now buzzing with life, supporting local fishermen, and pulling in visitors from nearby cities. That’s the story of Janawada Lake—a stunning transformation that’s breathing new energy into the community and turning heads as a must-visit picnic spot.

How Janawada Lake Rejuvenation Turned Into a Sustainable Source of Income for Local Fishermen

Thanks to the Mission Amrit Sarovar program under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), this lake got a second chance. Back in 2022, the rejuvenation project kicked off, aiming to revive 91 lakes across Bidar district. Janawada was one of them, and boy, has it paid off! After two solid monsoon seasons, the lake is brimming again, proving that a little care can go a long way.

For the local fishing families, it’s been a game-changer. Two societies, made up of 65 hardworking members, are now thriving here, raising four popular fish species—goldfish, catla, mrigal, and rohu. In just two years, they’ve harvested around 10 quintals of fish, sending their catch to big markets like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Pune. It’s not just about the fish; it’s about steady income and hope for folks who’ve long depended on this land.

But it’s not all work and no play. Janawada Lake’s peaceful vibes and lush surroundings have caught the eye of tourists too. “It’s the natural beauty and easy access that make it a perfect getaway,” says Girish Badole, the Chief Executive Officer of Bidar Zilla Panchayat. Whether you’re from a neighboring village or just passing through, the lake’s charm is hard to resist.

Janamma, the Deputy Director of the Fisheries Department in Bidar, calls it an ambitious success. “We took on this project to bring ponds and lakes back to life, and Janawada is proof it’s working,” she says. The Sagar Society, which leases the lake for fish farming, has turned it into a sustainable hub—balancing livelihoods with nature.

So, next time you’re looking for a serene escape or a peek into a community reborn, Janawada Lake in Bidar might just be your spot. It’s more than a lake—it’s a story of revival, resilience, and a little slice of paradise in Karnataka.

New Delhi, April 10, 2025 – Tahawwur Hussain Rana, a key figure accused in the devastating 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, is on his way to India after being extradited from the United States. According to prison sources, the 64-year-old Pakistan-born Canadian national is expected to be lodged in a high-security ward at Delhi’s Tihar Jail upon arrival. This development marks a significant step in India’s pursuit of justice for the tragic events that claimed 166 lives over a decade ago.

Rana’s extradition comes after his final attempt to avoid being handed over to Indian authorities was rejected by the U.S. Supreme Court. With all legal avenues exhausted, a multi-agency team from India traveled to the U.S. to facilitate his transfer. Reports indicate that preparations are already underway at Tihar Jail to accommodate Rana, ensuring stringent security measures are in place for his stay.

Who Is Tahawwur Rana?

Tahawwur Rana is no stranger to controversy. Known as a close associate of David Coleman Headley (also known as Daood Gilani), a U.S. citizen and one of the masterminds behind the Mumbai attacks, Rana’s role in the terror plot has been under scrutiny for years. The coordinated assault on November 26, 2008, saw 10 Pakistani terrorists unleash chaos across Mumbai, targeting a railway station, luxury hotels, and a Jewish center after infiltrating the city via the Arabian Sea.

Rana’s extradition has reignited conversations about the 26/11 attacks, a nearly 60-hour ordeal that left an indelible mark on India’s history. As a Pakistan-born Canadian, his alleged involvement in reconnaissance and logistical support for the Lashkar-e-Taiba terror group has made him a high-profile figure in this case.

What Happens Next?

Once Rana lands in India, he is expected to face trial under the supervision of the National Investigation Agency (NIA). Sources suggest he will initially be held at Tihar Jail, a facility known for housing high-risk inmates. Authorities have confirmed that all necessary arrangements have been made to ensure his confinement meets security protocols while awaiting court proceedings.

The Indian government has hailed this extradition as a diplomatic victory, emphasizing its commitment to bringing all perpetrators of the Mumbai attacks to justice. For many, Rana’s arrival symbolizes a long-overdue reckoning for one of the darkest chapters in modern Indian history.

Why Tihar Jail?

Tihar Jail, located in New Delhi, is one of India’s most secure correctional facilities, often reserved for individuals involved in serious crimes, including terrorism. Its high-security wards are equipped to handle inmates like Rana, ensuring both safety and surveillance. Reports indicate that prison officials are awaiting a court order to finalize his placement, but the groundwork has already been laid.

A Step Toward Closure

For survivors and families affected by the 26/11 attacks, Rana’s extradition offers a glimmer of hope for closure. The brutal assault, which saw terrorists wreak havoc across Mumbai’s iconic landmarks, remains a wound that has yet to fully heal. With Rana now in Indian custody, authorities are poised to uncover further details about the planning and execution of the attack, potentially shedding light on unresolved questions.

As this story unfolds, all eyes will be on New Delhi, where Rana’s trial could set a precedent for international cooperation in combating terrorism. Stay tuned for updates on this developing case as India prepares to hold one of the alleged architects of the Mumbai terror attacks accountable.