Bridges located in five villages along the National Highway 6 in East Jaiñtia Hills are showing signs of damage, with iron rods protruding from certain sections, posing a significant risk to commuters.
The Deputy Commissioner and Chairman of the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) said the bridges are located at Tongseng, Sonapyrdi, Pyrtakuna, Umkiang and Rattacherra villages under Lumshnong C&RD Block.
In response to these safety concerns, the Project Director of the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) based in Shillong, has been instructed to take immediate restorative measures. The urgency of addressing the bridge’s condition stems from its critical importance for transportation along NH-6.
The Deputy Commissioner has advised the public, commuters, and vehicles to exercise caution and strictly adhere to traffic regulations while using the bridge to avoid any untoward incident.
NH 6, a crucial lifeline that connects Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram & Tripura, has suffered extensive damage due to years of neglect. Heavy rains that triggered frequent landslides have exacerbated the situation, reducing large sections to muddy, impassable stretches.