Bridge Collapse Disrupts Traffic in Sivasagar, Assam

A significant bridge collapse in Sivasagar has caused major traffic disruptions on National Highway 37, affecting connectivity to key districts in Upper Assam. Fortunately, no casualties were reported, but the incident has raised serious concerns about the safety of aging infrastructure and the delays in completing alternative bridge projects. Local residents have criticized the administration for inadequate repairs and preparedness, emphasizing the need for urgent action to restore connectivity and address infrastructure issues in the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 27, 2026, 15:44 IST

Traffic Chaos Following Bridge Collapse

Sivasagar, March 27: A significant traffic disruption occurred in Sivasagar on Friday morning when a segment of the Gammon bridge over the Dikhow River collapsed. This incident halted all traffic on National Highway 37 near Konwarpur, a vital route for the region.

According to officials, the middle section of the bridge gave way during the early hours, severing connectivity on NH-37, which is crucial for Upper Assam and impacts travel to important districts such as Jorhat, Tinsukia, and Dibrugarh.

Local residents reported that the collapse happened shortly after a 12-wheeled dumper truck had crossed the bridge.

Fortunately, there were no reported injuries or fatalities from this incident.

“We arrived at the scene immediately after receiving the news. Repair efforts are currently in progress,” stated an official from Joysagar Police Station.

It is noteworthy that this incident occurred while repair work was already underway on the aging structure.

The bridge, constructed in 1963, had been showing signs of deterioration for some time.

Residents expressed concerns, noting that visible cracks and numerous potholes had appeared on the bridge in recent months, raising alarms about its safety.

“For almost three months, there have been several holes on the bridge. Heavy vehicles continued to use it despite its weakened state, increasing the risk,” a local woman remarked.

She further criticized the administration's lack of preparedness, highlighting that an alternative bridge in the vicinity has been incomplete for years.

“The government should have ensured the new bridge was finished and operational before commencing repairs on this one. This route is vital for Upper Assam,” she added.

Another resident pointed out what he perceived as administrative negligence.

“Cracks were visible for days, yet no adequate repair work was done. This situation could have been prevented,” he stated.

Authorities are currently evaluating the structural damage and are working to restore connectivity as soon as possible, while also exploring alternative routes to alleviate the disruption.

This incident has reignited discussions about the aging infrastructure and the delays in completing essential bridge projects in the area.