Bridge near India-China border closed for maintenance

Arunachal: The only bridge over Shiom river connecting Manigong with the rest of the state at BB Camp in Shi-Yomi district has been closed for maintenance by the district administration.

The decision was taken after the high tensile nut bolts connecting the suspenders and girders of the bridge came loose, posing a safety threat to the bridge.

The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has taken up the maintenance work and traffic movement has been completely stopped. Travellers who were not aware of the order had to leave their vehicles on both sides of the bridge.

“I was returning from Manigong to Tato for some urgent work. I left my vehicle on the Manigong side and crossed the bridge on foot and went to Tato,” said a resident.

The travellers said the bridge was in a dilapidated state for a long time and the authorities took any action only when the situation became dangerous. They urged the BRO officials to start the maintenance work on a war footing and open the bridge for travellers as soon as possible.

This bridge is the lifeline for the people of Manigong and Pidi Circle. Due to its closure for maintenance, people are facing a lot of trouble. Manigong Circle is located near the India-China border.