-Pratyusha Mukherjee
On a requisition received from the District Administration, the Indian Army’s Trishakti Corps has swiftly established a 34-metre foot bridge across the Balason River at Dudhia, restoring a vital communication link between Siliguri and Mirik and ensuring continued access to important border transit points, including Pashupati Phatak.
The intervention was necessitated after the existing bridge was washed away due to incessant rainfall, severely disrupting connectivity and causing hardship to local residents, commuters and tourists. Demonstrating its commitment to aid civil authorities during emergencies, the Indian Army responded promptly to restore pedestrian movement across the river.
The newly constructed foot bridge provides a safe and reliable crossing for civilians and will serve as an interim solution until permanent infrastructure is restored. Simultaneously, based on the requisition of the civil administration, efforts are underway to launch a wider Bailey Bridge at the site in the near future, which will facilitate vehicular movement and significantly improve connectivity in the region.
Restoration of vehicular access is expected to revive tourist traffic along this important route, providing a much-needed boost to the local economy and livelihoods dependent on tourism.
All necessary engineering and safety measures have been incorporated to ensure the structural stability and secure usage of the bridge.
Speaking on the occasion, an Army official stated, “The Indian Army remains committed to supporting civil administration and local communities whenever required. Restoration of this vital link will ease daily movement, support tourism and provide relief to the people of the region until a permanent solution is established.”
The initiative underscores the strong synergy between the Indian Army, civil administration and local communities in addressing challenges and ensuring the welfare of the people.
