November 14, 2018: The concrete bridge on Dhalai River at Ambassa is in desperate need of attention. If it is not repaired immediately, the consequences could be disastrous. A variety of vehicles including loaded lorries cross the vulnerable bridge – Bipin Chandra Pal bridge – daily. This bridge is the link between Agartala and Ambassa along the National highway.
“If the bridge collapses, vehicle would fall into Dhalai River. Local ruling leaders, administration – all are aware of probable danger, but concerned stakeholders are not taking any action to repair and renovate the decaying bridge”, local people alleged.
During last flood, one side of the bridge was washed away and the national highway remained closed for 3-4 days. While Agartala bound heavy vehicles kept waiting at Ambassa, small and light vehicles were diverted to Lalchhari-Kulai. Iron structure was placed at washed away portion of the bridge to restore normal vehicular movement. However, overall condition of the Bridge is in deplorable condition. “The bridge has become danger trap for vehicles as well as local people including school students”, residents alleged.
According to local residents, they sight relief every time after a heavy vehicle crosses the bridge safely – but we do not know why the local leaders and concerned officials are ignoring the pressing issue. “Are they waiting for disastrous accident to happen and affect innocent people?”, angrily asked local people.
