Guwahati, 27th September: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has reached out to Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, requesting his intervention to restart the stalled construction of the Majuli-Jorhat bridge. Work on the critical project has been halted since September 5, 2024, raising concerns over accountability from the contractor, UP State Bridge Corporation Limited.
In his letter, Sarma underscored the strategic importance of the two-lane bridge, which spans the Brahmaputra River and connects the culturally rich island of Majuli with Jorhat. He highlighted that the bridge is essential for enhancing regional connectivity and boosting economic development.
The project, which carries an estimated budget of ₹650 crore, was awarded in August 2021 under the EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) mode, with a scheduled completion date set for December 2025. Sarma pointed out that the current dry season represents a crucial window for construction activities. He warned that further delays could result in significant time and cost overruns.
In his appeal, the Chief Minister urged Minister Gadkari to consider immediate corrective actions, including the possibility of re-tendering the project if necessary. He expressed hope for prompt measures to ensure work resumes and the original completion timeline is adhered to, thereby safeguarding Assam’s developmental agenda.