Chhattisgarh: NHRC seeks report on schoolchildren crossing Pairi river on unfinished bridge

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognizance of reports that schoolchildren in Gariyaband district, Chhattisgarh, are being forced to cross the Pairi river using a narrow iron ladder attached to an unfinished bridge to reach their schools.

The NHRC has issued a notice to the Chief Secretary of the Chhattisgarh government, seeking a detailed report on the matter within two weeks. The Commission said that if the reported facts are true, they raise serious concerns regarding violation of human rights.

The NHRC's action follows a media report published on September 3, 2026, which reported that children from Khambhatha and nearby settlements in the Mainpur Block area have to use the iron ladder to cross the river. During the monsoon, the river reportedly becomes much deeper and faster, increasing the risks faced by the students.

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Chhattisgarh bridge remains incomplete for six years

According to the media report cited by the NHRC, a roughly 300-metre-long bridge between Deharguda and Khambhatha in Mainpur Block has remained under construction for nearly six years.

Villagers were reportedly assured by the concerned authorities around a year ago that the bridge would be completed within six months. However, the bridge remains unfinished, forcing residents, including schoolchildren, to find alternative ways to cross the river.

The report said children have to climb a narrow and slippery iron ladder fixed to the incomplete bridge to reach their schools. The situation becomes particularly dangerous during the monsoon when the Pairi river turns into a torrent.

NHRC seeks detailed report from Chhattisgarh government

The Commission observed that the reported circumstances, if found to be true, raise serious issues related to the human rights of the affected children and residents.

The NHRC has therefore directed the Chief Secretary of Chhattisgarh to submit a detailed report on the matter within two weeks.

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The Commission's action comes amid concerns over the safety of schoolchildren who are reportedly compelled to take the risky route to attend school. The report sought by the NHRC is expected to provide details on the bridge's construction status and the steps being taken by the state authorities to address the situation.