SILCHAR, Oct 14 � A gaping hole in the expansion point of the Sadarghat bridge, considered to be a most vital bridge as it connects Silchar Airport, Manipur, Haflong and other areas, has created a panic-like situation among the masses.
In a meeting, organised at the Deputy Commissioner�s office premises on Wednesday, it was decided that heavily-loaded vehicles, including buses will not be allowed. The vehicles can use Udharbond-Borkhera bridge as well as the newly-constructed bridge at Fulertal. The buses plying to the airport, Udarbond, Lakhipur will be stopped at Rongpur point. However, taxis, Sumos, Cruisers etc., will be allowed to ply on a one-way arrangement. This arrangement will continue till the damaged part is repaired.
Till now no steps have been taken to repair the damage. Although, the officials are supervising the matter, vehicles are plying very slowly. Traffic police personnel have been deployed to control the situation.
It may be noted that damage on the Sadarghat bridge started in the end of 2009. Teh PWD(NH) was entrusted with the responsibility of renovating and repairing the bridge. But the concerned department has failed in its duty. Further, on January 12, 2011 from Rongpur point to Silchar onwards a big crack developed on the fourth pillar. This crack too, created a panic like situation among the masses. An agitation in this regard against the political leaders was also held.
The Sadarghat bridge was constructed in 1966 by Gamon India Ltd. Now the bearing of the bridge has been completely damaged. Sources said that an amount of Rs one crore was placed before the chief engineer for the repairs.
Pronob Sinha, executive engineer, PWD (NH) said that a new estimate has been prepared and the amount has increased to Rs six crore sixty lakh and in June, the estimate was sent to the Central Government.
