Assam: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has sought the immediate intervention of Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, to address the halted construction of the Jorhat-Majuli bridge over the Brahmaputra.
In a letter to the Union Minister, CM Sarma expressed concern over the cessation of work on the critical two-lane bridge project since September 5, 2024. The project, awarded in August 2021 to the Uttar Pradesh State Bridge Corporation Limited under the EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) mode, has a contract value of approximately ₹650 crore and is slated for completion by December 2025.
- Loss of the Dry Season: CM Sarma stressed that the current dry season, crucial for construction, is being wasted, risking significant delays and potential cost overruns.
- Abandoned Site: Reports indicate that the contractor has left the site, stalling all progress on the infrastructure project vital to connectivity and economic growth.
To address the situation, the Chief Minister outlined several measures:
- Re-Tendering: Expedite the process of appointing a new contractor, if necessary, to ensure the project’s continuity.
- Timely Resumption of Work: Take immediate steps to restart construction, ensuring that the December 2025 deadline is met without compromise.
The bridge, connecting Majuli on the North Bank to Jorhat on the South Bank (spanning from km 11/690 to km 19/715 on NH-715), is considered a lifeline for the region. Once completed, it will:
- Enhance accessibility for Majuli, the world’s largest river island.
- Promote socio-economic development in Majuli and surrounding areas.
CM Sarma emphasized the project’s importance for the region and expressed optimism that Union Minister Gadkari’s intervention would expedite the resolution of issues, bringing the project back on track and ensuring its timely completion.
Read More: Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma Lauds Nitin Gadkari for Progress on Jorhat-Dibrugarh Highway Project