A serious safety concern has gripped the residents of the Dholai Assembly constituency in Cachar following the reappearance of significant cracks on the Rukni River Hanging Bridge located on the vital Kabuganj-Amraghat Road. Locals fear that a major accident could occur at any moment if the bridge, which acts as a lifeline for thousands, collapses.
Cracks Reappear on Deteriorating Structure
The Rukni River bridge, often referred to by locals as a ‘Jhulon Pul’ (Hanging Bridge), has a history of structural fragility. Authorities from the Public Works Department (PWD) had previously repaired the bridge after a similar fault was detected.
However, despite those efforts, fresh cracks have developed, indicating deeper structural integrity issues. This deterioration is particularly alarming as the bridge handles continuous daily traffic.
Completed Alternative Bridge Yet to Be Opened
The situation is compounded by a bureaucratic delay involving a newly constructed bridge. A modern alternative bridge has been built by the government to replace the failing structure.
Astonishingly, despite the new bridge being ready, it has not yet been officially opened for vehicle movement. Consequently, the old, structurally compromised bridge remains the sole functional route for the public.
Lifeline for Purba Dholai Residents at Risk
The Kabuganj-Amraghat Road is recognized as the lifeline for the entire population of Purba Dholai (East Dholai). Thousands of residents depend entirely on this road and the Rukni River bridge for their daily commuting, access to markets, and emergency services.
Local community leaders have expressed deep worry that if the old bridge were to fail before the new one is inaugurated, it would cause an “extreme disaster” for the people of Purba Dholai, completely cutting off their movement and essential supply chains.
The residents are urgently appealing to the Cachar District Administration and the PWD to immediately assess the stability of the old structure and, more importantly, expedite the process of opening the new bridge for public use to avert a potential catastrophe.
