Silchar: Over six months have passed since Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma laid the foundation stone for the much-anticipated Madhuraghat (Gandhighat) RCC bridge over the Barak river, yet construction work has not begun, sparking concern and resentment among residents and civil society groups in the region.
Project Details and Delay
The bridge project, sanctioned under the Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF) at an estimated cost of approximately Rs 80 crore, was formally inaugurated on December 7, 2025. However, despite repeated assurances and public expectations, no visible progress has been made at the site so far.
The proposed RCC bridge, designed to enhance connectivity between Greater Dudhpatil and adjoining areas, will measure 340 metres in length and 7.5 metres in width. According to project plans, it will comprise five spans supported by pile foundations. The project also includes the construction of a 280-metre approach road and the upgrading of the road from Madhuraghat to Capital Point in Silchar.
Public Concerns and Historical Significance
Residents said the bridge has been a long-pending demand and is expected to ease transportation difficulties while boosting economic activity in the area. The delay in starting work has, however, led to growing public frustration. Several social organisations, including the Greater Silchar Citizens' Forum, have urged the state government to expedite the project. They have appealed to the Chief Minister, ministers from the Barak Valley, Members of Parliament, and local MLAs to intervene and ensure that construction begins without further delay.
Sanjib Roy, president of Youth Against Social Evils (YASI), an NGO, said the site holds historical significance. He added that the ghat came to be known as Gandhighat after the ashes of Mahatma Gandhi were immersed there. He noted that the river crossing has served as an important connectivity link between the town and the surrounding areas since the British era.
Call for Transparency
Civil society groups have also sought clarification from the authorities on the project’s status and the reasons behind the delay. With no activity visible on the ground, residents fear that continued inaction could jeopardise a project widely seen as crucial for the region’s connectivity and future development.
