MAWKYRWAT, March 18: Days after another timber bridge along the Maheskola-Sohhylleng road in Ranikor Civil Sub-Division, South West Khasi Hills, was allegedly set on fire by unidentified miscreants, the police have launched an investigation and are actively searching for the culprits responsible for the destruction of public property.
The latest incident occurred on March 15, when a timber bridge on the Maheshkola-Sohhylleng road was deliberately burned down, rendering it unusable and causing significant inconvenience to residents.
In response, Executive Engineer of PWD (Roads), Ranikor Division, D Kyndiah, issued a public notice on Monday, warning against acts of vandalism and arson targeting infrastructure within the division. He stated that authorities would take strict action against those involved and ensure they are held accountable. “It has come to the attention of the authorities that repeated incidents of deliberate bridge burning have occurred, causing significant disruption and posing severe safety risks to the public. Anyone found guilty of destroying or damaging public infrastructure will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” Kyndiah stated in the notice. Speaking to The Shillong Times, Kyndiah revealed that since 2013, there have been four incidents of timber bridge burnings at different locations in Ranikor, causing severe disruptions and endangering public safety. He confirmed that an FIR has been filed at Nonghyllam police station and assured that strict legal action will be taken against those responsible.
The recently burned bridge connected three villages — Sohhylleng, Amarsang, and Umtongkut — and its destruction have left residents struggling with travel and transportation of goods. Kyndiah mentioned that while a subway exists in the area, the department is exploring options to repair it to ease the villagers’ hardships.
Official sources reported that, as of now, no suspects have been identified, but authorities are examining all possible angles to determine the motive behind the crime. Investigators are hopeful that they will identify and apprehend the culprits in the coming days and ensure they face legal consequences.
