Bridge Collapse Disrupts Essential Supply Routes in Manipur
Bridge Collapse Affects Transportation in Manipur
Collapsed bailey bridge over the Tuivai River between Sinzawl & Khuanggin villages along NH-102B in Manipur (Photo: AT)
Imphal, May 1: A significant incident occurred when a Bailey bridge over the Tuivai River, located between the villages of Sinzawl and Khuanggin along NH-102B (Guite Road), collapsed. This event has severely hindered the transportation of essential goods to Churachandpur and other hilly regions.
The Guite Road Chiefs’ Association (GRCA) reported that the bridge gave way around 10:30 PM on Thursday while two trucks loaded with cement from AK Shivhare Company, a contractor working with NHIDCL, were crossing and reached the middle of the span.
This route is vital as it connects Churachandpur to Aizawl, facilitating the daily transport of essential supplies from Silchar and various areas of Assam through Mizoram.
The collapse is anticipated to have a considerable effect on local supply chains and the economy in the hilly districts.
Sources from GRCA have voiced serious concerns regarding the incident and are urging immediate restoration efforts.
The association has notified NHIDCL, AK Shivhare Company, the government, and M&S Company to expedite the bridge's reconstruction.
GRCA Secretary Khup mentioned that discussions with relevant officials are ongoing, but he warned that the timeline for restoration remains unclear due to the river's extensive span.
He recommended that travelers utilize the Sinzawl–Dialkhai–Mualnuam bypass road temporarily and consider the Tipaimukh route (NH-150) in case of flooding.
In response to the disruption, the District Magistrate of Churachandpur has issued a traffic advisory and instructed NHIDCL to prioritize the bridge's restoration.
According to an official statement, NHIDCL has already begun immediate actions to procure and install a replacement Bailey bridge, with restoration efforts being prioritized to restore normal traffic flow as soon as possible.
During this period, all vehicular traffic has been rerouted via the Sinzawl–Dialkhai–Churachandpur route through NH-02.
Commuters are urged to follow the alternative route and comply with official traffic advisories.
“The District Administration assures the public that all necessary measures are being taken to restore connectivity promptly,” the statement concluded, requesting public cooperation.