Assam: Bridge Collapse on Silchar–Kalain Road Disrupts Barak Valley Connectivity

SILCHAR-  A vital bridge over the Harang River on the Silchar–Kalain Road in Assam’s Cachar district collapsed in the early hours of Wednesday, June 18, 2025, severing crucial connectivity to Barak Valley and neighboring states.

The incident, which occurred around 2 AM, has left residents and authorities grappling with disrupted transport and mounting allegations of corruption in infrastructure maintenance.

Preliminary investigations point to two overloaded trucks, reportedly carrying stones or limestone, as the cause of the collapse. The trucks, which violated the bridge’s weight restrictions, plunged into the Harang River, injuring the drivers but causing no fatalities.

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The bridge, located at Bhangarpar, had undergone repairs costing ₹1.37 crore and was reopened less than a month ago, raising serious questions about the quality of the renovation work.

The collapse has significantly impacted connectivity between Barak Valley—comprising Cachar, Hailakandi, and Karimganj districts—and states like Tripura, Mizoram, and Manipur. The Silchar–Kalain Road was serving as a critical diversion route while the main Katigorah Gammon Bridge on National Highway 6 remains under repair, compounding the crisis.

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Cachar Deputy Commissioner Mridul Yadav, who inspected the site, assured swift action, stating, “Barak Valley is not isolated. Alternative routes via Kalain and Katigorah to Shillong are operational for light vehicles.” The Indian Army has been tasked with constructing a Bailey bridge within 10 days to restore traffic flow. Rescue operations are ongoing, and a nearby road is accommodating smaller vehicles.

Authorities have arrested five individuals and placed three police personnel under reserve, amid allegations of police complicity in allowing overloaded vehicles.

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A magisterial probe has been ordered to investigate the incident, with locals and political figures, including Rajya Sabha MP Sushmita Dev, demanding accountability. “Was the material legal or illegal?” Dev questioned, pointing to a possible syndicate involved in illegal limestone transport in the region.

Public outrage has intensified, with many blaming the Public Works Department (PWD) and contractors for substandard repairs. The incident underscores long-standing concerns about Assam’s fragile infrastructure, particularly in Barak Valley.