SHILLONG, March 26: The eight-day-long retrofitting work of Umiam dam and Spillway Bridges starting March 31, which falls on Easter Sunday, could likely cause inconveniences to people travelling for Easter, in the wake of which, there is an appeal to reschedule the date.
It may be noted that vehicular movement through Umiam bridge will be closed between March 31 and April 8 in view of the retrofitting works.
North Shillong MLA Adelbert Lyngdoh on Tuesday wrote to Power Minister Abu Taher Mondal seeking rescheduling of the date for the retrofitting works.
In a letter to Mondal, Nongrum said that the closure of Umiam bridge for 8 days will start on Easter Sunday, flagging concern over individuals travelling on March 31 being affected.
“It would be much appropriate if the closure of the route begins from April 1 to 9 so as to pave the way for smoother travel experiences and adequate time for public awareness regarding the closure,” the VPP MLA said.
He cast aspersions on the government’s decision in the past to allow heavy trucks exceeding 9 tonne of weight to ply on the bridge.
“It is crucial to find alternative solutions or adjustments to the retrofitting works schedule to minimise inconvenience to the public,” Nongrum said.
He urged the Power Minister to take necessary action to minimise the challenges faced by the community during this period.
According to the schedule set by the Meghalaya Power Generation Corporation Limited (MePGCL), there will be a minimum of 6 hours of complete traffic blockage on the first day (March 31) from 8 am to 2 pm.
