Sadiya bridge project on Brahmaputra River to improve connectivity

Sadiya (Arunachal Pradesh), July 2 (ANI): The two-lane, nine kilometer long Sadiya Bridge is all set to enhance connectivity in the border areas of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.

The 12.9 metre wide bridge, once completed, will connect Dholaghat to Islampur in Assam. It will also link NH-37 in Assam to NH-52 in Arunachal Pradesh, besides linking Sadiya village with Dholaghat and two other districts of Arunachal Pradesh.

The two areas are separated by the Bramhaputra River and the bridge will reduce the transit time from 5 hours to 2 hours.

Locals believe the bridge will improve connectivity in the region and open growth opportunities.

Earlier, a ferry used to be the only option for cargo transit from Sadiya. The new bridge will facilitate road transport and will be a boon for businessmen.

"Once its (Sadiya Bridge) is complete, there will be development in this area, which will benefit the people. There will be better connectivity between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh that will open new avenues for progress in future," Bhagwati Sharma, a local businessman, said.

The construction of the bridge will reduce the cargo costs, resulting in higher profits on paddy and vegetables that are exported from Sadiya village.

"Due to lack of communication in this area, the prices of commodities are very high. All the commodities are transported from Tinsukia via ferry. Now, the new bridge will benefit the businessman to a greater extent," Kirti Phukan, Principal, Sadiya College, said.

The new road will also facilitate numerous hydro power projects coming up in Arunachal Pradesh and foster socio-economic development in Assam, besides commuting for education will become easier for the students in the area.

It will also facilitate the security agencies to keep a tight vigil.

"Students of this area usually go to Dibrugarh, Tinsukia, and Guwahati for higher studies but after completion of this bridge, the scenario of education will completely change as people are making an effort to establish ITI and college in the area," Phukan added.

The engineers and workers are facing a tough time constructing the bridge because of continuous rains and insurgent activities. They have established the pillars and are nearing its completion.

The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2014 at an estimated cost of Rs. 876 crores. (ANI)