Assam: Jorhat–Majuli bridge construction to resume in December

Guwahati: Construction of the long-delayed Jorhat–Majuli bridge is scheduled to resume in December, Majuli MLA Bhuban Gam stated, providing a planned connection to the river island.

The bridge project, inaugurated by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on November 29, 2021, had been stalled for over a year, causing concern among locals.

The Public Works Department (PWD) has now confirmed that all pending clearances and tender procedures have been completed.

The main construction contract has been awarded to SPS Construction India Pvt. Ltd., also known as SP Singla Company, and work is set to begin immediately.

“All necessary approvals and tenders have been completed, and the contract has been granted to SP Singla Company. Machinery and preparations are underway,” MLA Gam told reporters.

During a site visit, the PWD Chief Engineer said preliminary groundwork is finished, and bridge construction and associated road work will proceed simultaneously.

“The bridge has been re-sanctioned, the tender approved, and the contractor is ready to start. The Chief Minister has directed immediate action. The project is scheduled for completion in two years, and it may be finished sooner,” he added.

The bridge construction is estimated to cost Rs 659 crore, with an additional Rs 194 crore allocated for the road segment.

To avoid previous delays, the main company will handle the work directly, with no subcontracting allowed.

The Chief Engineer also noted that SP Singla is experienced in similar projects and has already begun setting up camps and preparing the site, while road construction will be managed by a separate contractor.

The Jorhat–Majuli bridge aims to improve connectivity for Majuli residents, who currently rely on ferry services.