Dhubri-Phulbari Bridge

Latest News

• 59% Completion: As per recent reports, 59% of the construction work on the Dhubri-Phulbari Bridge has been completed. This marks significant progress in India’s efforts to enhance connectivity in the Northeast.

About the Dhubri-Phulbari Bridge

• Location: Over the Brahmaputra River, connecting Dhubri (Assam) and Phulbari (Meghalaya) on NH 127 B.

• Significance:

  • Longest River Bridge in India: Total length of 19.3 km, surpassing the current record-holder (Bhupen Hazarika Setu, 9.15 km).

  • Strategic Connectivity: Reduces travel distance between Assam and Meghalaya by over 200 km, cutting travel time from 6–7 hours to 30–40 minutes.

Key Features

1. Design & Structure:

   • 4-Lane Bridge: Designed for high-speed traffic and heavy freight.

   • Navigation Span: A 12.625 km navigation bridge to allow ship passage.

Approach Viaducts:

1. • • Dhubri side: 3.5 km.

     • Phulbari side: 2.2 km.

   • Pillars: Supported by 199 pillars to withstand Brahmaputra’s strong currents.

2. Construction:

   • Contractor: Larsen & Toubro (L&T).

   • Funding: ₹3,165.99 crore project funded by Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

   • Agency Overseeing: National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corp Ltd. (NHIDCL).

Strategic Importance

• Economic Boost: Facilitates trade between Northeast India, Bangladesh (via Dhubri’s proximity to the border), and mainland India.

• Regional Integration: Strengthens connectivity to critical hubs like Guwahati and Shillong.

• Disaster Resilience: Provides a reliable alternative route during floods, which often disrupt existing roadways.

Key Takeaways

• Engineering Marvel: Aims to become India’s longest river bridge, showcasing advanced engineering to tackle the Brahmaputra’s challenges.

• Game-Changer for Northeast: Drastically improves logistics, tourism, and access to essential services in the region.

• Global Collaboration: Reflects Indo-Japanese partnership through JICA’s funding and technical expertise.

FAQs

1. Which bridge connects Assam and Meghalaya?

   • Ans: Dhubri-Phulbari Bridge.

2. Which river does the Dhubri-Phulbari Bridge cross?

   • Ans: Brahmaputra River.

3. What is the total length of the bridge?

   • Ans: 19.3 km (longest river bridge in India).