Historic Hanging Bridge in Assam Faces Imminent Collapse
A Century-Old Engineering Marvel at Risk
Dilapidated condition of historic colonial era bridge over Diffloo River in Bokakhat (Photo: AT)
Jorhat, May 22: The historic hanging bridge over the Diffloo River in Bokakhat, built nearly a century ago by the British without any support pillars, is now perilously close to collapse, having been neglected over the years.
Suspended solely by iron cables, this iconic bridge located near the Diffloo Tea Estate, approximately four kilometers from Bokakhat town, once represented remarkable engineering from the colonial period.
However, the bridge's condition has severely deteriorated, with rusted components, broken wooden planks, and significant erosion along the riverbank, turning this 96-year-old structure into a hazardous relic.
“Constructed in 1930, prior to India's independence, the bridge was built over the Diffloo River following the establishment of tea gardens in the region. Today, it is in a state of extreme disrepair,” remarked a local resident.
Known as the 'Heritage Hanging Bridge', local residents are calling on the Assam government for its upkeep (Photo: AT)
The Diffloo River, which flows from the Karbi Hills and traverses Kaziranga National Park, is considered a vital artery for the renowned wildlife sanctuary.
This suspension bridge continues to draw visitors and tourists eager to see the unique colonial-era structure that hangs solely by iron cables.
Initially constructed to facilitate the transport of goods across the river, it also served as a crucial link between the Mikir Hills, now known as Karbi Anglong, and the Bokakhat area.
However, years of neglect have left the historic bridge in a fragile and unsafe state.
Locals express concern as they witness residents crossing the bridge using makeshift wooden planks, highlighting the risks involved.
Despite a newer bridge being available nearby, many, including schoolchildren and daily commuters, still opt for the old hanging bridge to cross the river.
A resident warned that the bridge poses significant safety risks as it remains a crucial route for local inhabitants.
“Even with a new bridge nearby, people continue to use this one for crossing. Schoolchildren, workers, and employees rely on it daily. If the situation persists, a serious accident is likely,” the resident cautioned.
The bridge's condition has deteriorated further due to inadequate maintenance and severe erosion from the strong currents of the Diffloo River, with visible sections nearing collapse.
This alarming state has raised concerns among local residents and organizations, prompting calls for the Assam government to take swift action to preserve this heritage structure before it is lost forever.
The resident urged, “I implore the Assam government and Bokakhat MLA Atul Bora to implement urgent conservation measures for this historic bridge.”
“Visitors from various places come here regularly, but many leave upon seeing the bridge's poor condition. We hope the Chief Minister of Assam will take steps for its repair and conservation to ensure its survival,” they added.
For many in Bokakhat, this bridge represents more than just an old structure; it is a fading symbol of the region's history, colonial heritage, and connectivity.
However, without immediate restoration efforts, locals fear that this historic hanging bridge may soon be lost to the currents of the Diffloo River.