CM inaugurated incomplete bridge in April ’16
SHILLONG: Chief Minister Mukul Sangma had on April 4 this year inaugurated the bridge over the Simsang river in Williamnagar with much fanfare.
However, a visit to the spot in Williamnagar recently revealed that the bridge constructed at a cost of several crores of rupees is yet to be completed and the inauguration was carried out for the completion of only one portion.
Passers-by pointed out the ironical decision of the government to inaugurate the ‘half’ bridge while one portion was left unattended.
A resident said though there was resentment among locals over the inauguration of the incomplete bridge, the sudden decision to go ahead with its inauguration was a political move aimed at the by-poll for Tura Lok Sabha seat after the death of sitting MP PA Sangma on March 4 this year.
The project sanctioned with an estimate of Rs 1.43 crore on March 25, 1986, took 30 years for partial completion. The authorities, meanwhile, are tightlipped about the reason that led to the delay in completing the remaining portion of the bridge.
Besides cabinet ministers Sniawbhalang Dhar and Deborah Marak, who is also the local MLA, Parliamentary Secretary in charge PWD (Roads) Cherak W. Momin, Chief Secretary KS Kropha, and PWD officials were present during the inauguration.
The bridge that spans a total of 203.29 m is the longest in Meghalaya to be constructed by the government. The current portion of the bridge completed in March this year is the only connecting link for the movement of several villagers across the Simsang. It also connects Williamnagar with Chokpot in South Garo Hills.
For the remaining portion to be complete, what is left is levelling of the ground, metalling and black topping.
When apprised of it, a PWD official who looks after the sector said the remaining portion, which also includes the approach road, will be taken up for construction.