Dilapidated State of Harangajao Hamdhan Mohan Haflongbar Bridge Worries Locals

 

Haflong October 30: The Hamdhan Mohan Haflongbar Bridge at Harangajao built over the Jatinga River long back, now stands in a dilapidated condition, posing serious risks to commuters. The bridge, once a crucial link to Harangajao Bazar, has remained neglected since it was severely damaged during the devastating natural disaster of May 2022 that crippled Dima Hasao district.  

That calamity had wiped out roads, bridges, and railway lines across the hilly terrain, cutting off all communication with the district headquarters, Haflong. In the months that followed, through persistent efforts under the Hill Autonomous Council, the district’s overall communication system—rail, road, and transport—was gradually restored.  

However, it is deeply regrettable that even after more than three years, no steps have been taken by the concerned authorities to reconstruct or repair the old bridge connecting both the banks of river Jatinga. 

Locals allege that the Public Works Department (PWD) has shown utter indifference to the unsafe condition of the bridge, while the district administration’s inaction has further compounded public resentment.  

At present, only light vehicles are allowed to cross the nearly 100‑metre‑long bridge—an activity fraught with danger as the structure remains unstable and fragile. Residents fear that a major accident could occur at any time.  

It may be recalled that the bridge is dedicated to the late Hamdhan Mohan Haflongbar, former MLA of Haflong constituency and a respected social activist. Haflongbar had served as a rail site Mouzadar during the British era and later earned historical recognition by hoisting the first national flag of independent India on August 15, 1947, in front of the Haflong SDO office.  

 The continued neglect of such a vital bridge in this key township is therefore viewed as highly unfortunate.  

According to a local trader, during the April 2022 downpour, an intense current in the Jatinga River washed away the soil and stones beneath the bridge’s pillars, causing portions of the structure to sink. Initially, the bridge had to be completely closed to traffic. Later, temporary repairs enabled the movement of small vehicles, but its safety remains highly questionable.  

The state government had earlier announced a fund of ₹6,000 crore for improving road connectivity across the hill districts. Yet, despite repeated appeals and the lapse of several years, the PWD has taken no visible action to rebuild this crucial bridge, leaving residents frustrated and apprehensive.