Bhagalpur: As thousands of commuters continue to struggle after the collapse of a slab of the Vikramshila Setu on May 4 disrupted road connectivity between Bhagalpur and the Seemanchal region, community kitchens run by Jeevika Didis at Barari Ghat have emerged as a major relief for stranded travellers and daily wage earners.With ferry and boat services becoming the primary mode of transport between the Bhagalpur and Naugachia ghats, long waiting hours left many commuters without access to affordable food. Sensing the hardship, Bhagalpur district magistrate Nawal Kishor Choudhary and senior superintendent of police Pramod Kumar Yadav initiated community kitchens with the help of Jeevika self-help groups.The two officers had repeatedly visited the ghat and interacted with commuters before deciding to involve Jeevika Didis in providing subsidised meals. Officials also inspected the quality of food being prepared and directed staff to ensure proper sanitation, safe drinking water, health services and seating arrangements, including mats at waiting camps.Lakshmi Devi, a member of the self-help group managing the kitchen, said the initiative was aimed at both supporting commuters and economically empowering women. “We have received excellent cooperation and support from the public right from the very first day,” she said.The biggest attraction of the kitchen is the low-cost menu. A full vegetarian meal comprising rice, dal, vegetables, papad, chutney and salad is available for Rs 50.Traditional dishes are also drawing crowds. Two pieces of litti-chokha with chutney are being served for Rs 20, while chura fry and Bengal gram ghughni cost Rs 30 per plate. Onion fritters are priced at Rs 25 per plate. Tea is available for Rs 10 and sattu sharbat for Rs 20.The DM said the community kitchens were started to provide “pure and hygienic food at affordable prices” to pilgrims, commuters, travellers and local residents affected by the ongoing transport disruption.
