Assam Ministers Inspect Bridge Restoration Efforts in Silchar
Ministers Assess Restoration Progress
Silchar, June 21: On Friday, Assam Cabinet Ministers Kaushik Rai and Krishnendu Paul visited two significant locations, the Gammon Bridge in Katigorah and Bhangarpar, to evaluate the ongoing restoration activities.
The Gammon Bridge in Katigorah, which collapsed due to the excessive weight of overloaded trucks, is currently undergoing repairs by the National Highway Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL). This incident had a major impact on traffic along this crucial route. However, both ministers are hopeful that the bridge will be operational again by the official completion date of July 20.
After inspecting the site alongside NHIDCL officials and local residents, Minister Kaushik Rai stated, “Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma is personally monitoring every aspect of the repair process. We are dedicated to restoring seamless connectivity in Barak Valley. Currently, the bridge is approximately 50% repaired. If everything proceeds as planned, NHIDCL should finish the work by the deadline.”
In Bhangarpar, the bridge over the Harang River on the Silchar-Kalain road collapsed at midnight on June 17. The construction of a Bailey bridge is advancing rapidly. Minister Krishnendu Paul mentioned that the dismantling of the old bridge commenced on Friday night, and the Bailey bridge is anticipated to be completed in about ten days.
“Progress is accelerating. Materials for the Bailey bridge are being sourced from Jharkhand and other areas. The Chief Minister has also instructed PWD Chief Engineer Sanjib Shyam to prepare for a permanent bridge while ensuring that temporary solutions are implemented without delay,” Paul added.
Additionally, the state government has allocated Rs 2 crore for the restoration of the alternate Ronghor route, which is being developed to allow light vehicle movement and reduce disruptions to daily life.
A magisterial inquiry into the collapse of the Harang River bridge is currently being conducted by the Cachar District Administration. The report is expected within a week, after which appropriate actions will be taken.