Silchar, July 14: After nearly two months of essential repairs, the vital Gammon Bridge at Badarpurghat is scheduled to reopen on July 15. Minister of State for Fisheries and Animal Husbandry, Krishnendu Paul, and Minister Rai inspected the final preparations on-site, announcing that the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) completed the repairs ahead of the July 20 deadline. This reopening will enhance connectivity not only within the Barak Valley but also to neighboring states such as Tripura, Manipur, and Mizoram.
To ensure safety, a strict enforcement of load limits will be in effect for the first three days. “Only vehicles that meet the permissible weight limit will be allowed on the bridge. Trucks with unauthorized extensions or modifications will have those parts removed immediately,” Minister Rai stated.
The extensive repair work, which started on May 21, was necessitated by significant structural issues detected in the gap slabs of the decades-old bridge. Gauranga Deoghare, NHIDCL’s General Manager in Silchar, reported that at least three damaged gap slabs were replaced, and worn-out bearings were changed to bolster the structure. “The bridge is now stronger and safer,” he noted.
As a precautionary measure, load limits for the first three days will allow only light motor vehicles and buses on the bridge. Following this initial period, a detailed structural assessment will be conducted, requiring an eight-hour temporary closure.
Before the site visit, a high-level coordination meeting took place involving Ministers Rai and Paul, Deputy Commissioner Mridul Yadav, Superintendent of Police Numal Mahatta, and District Transport Officer Ramesh Shyam to finalize the enforcement plan. When asked about the use of technology for enhanced surveillance, Rai mentioned that the DTO and local police will act to remove any unauthorized extensions on vehicles.
Minister Paul elaborated on the load restrictions, emphasizing that six-wheeler trucks should not exceed nine tonnes, while twelve-wheeler vehicles must adhere to their prescribed limits. “No further disruption on this lifeline of Barak Valley will be tolerated,” he cautioned, urging transporters to comply strictly with the load guidelines.
The 360-meter-long cantilever bridge, constructed in 1974, serves a crucial role on the Silchar–Kalain section of the National Highway. Despite enduring significant wear over the decades, it remains an essential conduit for trade and travel in the region.
Original Source: https://assamtribune.com/assam/repairs-done-cachars-gammon-bridge-reopens-july-15-under-tight-load-rules-1584775
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Publish Date: 2025-07-14 20:13:00
