Siliguri, 24th June: Connectivity across the Balason River at Dudhia has resumed after the Indian Army constructed a temporary foot bridge following the collapse of the hume pipe bridge that previously linked the area. The new bridge has brought relief to local residents, daily commuters and tourists who had been facing severe difficulties for several days.
According to reports, the newly constructed foot bridge is approximately 1 metre wide and 34 feet long. The bridge has been opened for pedestrian movement, allowing people cross the river on foot. However, vehicular movement is yet to resume and is expected to take some more time.
It may be recalled that a spell of heavy overnight rainfall a few days ago caused a sudden rise in the water level of the Balason River. The strong current washed away the temporary hume pipe bridge at Dudhia, disrupting connectivity and causing immense inconvenience to commuters, tourists and local residents.
Considering the gravity of the situation, the Army stepped in and undertook the construction of the temporary foot bridge on a war footing. With pedestrian movement restored, residents have expressed relief, although they believe normalcy will return completely only after vehicular traffic is reinstated.