Meghalaya Government Deliberates Future of Umiam Bridge, Dam

SHILLONG: The government of Meghalaya is also actively considering the future of the Umiam Bridge and Dam, an important infrastructural asset ever since it went into commission in 1965.

Though the recent retrofitting and rebuilding has added another 30 years to the life of the bridge, authorities are planning long-term solutions such as building an alternative road.

Power Minister AT Mondol emphasized the necessity for a sustainable alternative, noting that talks are in progress. "According to my knowledge, NHIDCL has been given the responsibility of finding an alternate route. The Detailed Project Report (DPR) is being finalised and the work is at a very advanced stage," he added.

The minister assured that an alternate bypass is on the anvil, attributing the rise in vehicular load over the years as a principal issue. "While the bridge was built in 1965, the vehicle load capacity was much less. Considering today's situation, where vehicles load more weight, we must have a different bridge with a higher capacity to handle loads," he made clear.

Though there are still concerns about the bridge, Mondol explained that the Power Department is mainly concerned with the structural integrity of the Umiam Dam itself. He added that following recent repair work, seepage has been reduced to a minimum, and heavy vehicle restrictions have been put in place for the safety of the dam.

The minister also pointed out the dilemma of deciding on the long-term fate of the bridge after its extended lifespan expires. He underscored the crucial function of the Umiam Reservoir in complementing power production in the state. "Umiam Dam supplements water for the 216 MW capacity of the four Umiam power units and the new Umtru power project at Byrnihat. All water for these projects is supplied by the Umiam Reservoir, so this is a matter of serious concern," he stated.

Though deliberations are on, no firm decision has been made as yet. Mondol hopes that deliberations will result in a feasible solution, taking into account developments in technology that could further lengthen the lifespan of the bridge.

He assured that there is continuous monitoring to safeguard the dam's safety. "Our men are stationed there and we have also sent police forces," he said.

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