Meghalaya Government Reinstates Two-Way Traffic on Umiam Bridge After Repairs

Shillong, July 30, 2024 — The Meghalaya government has announced the resumption of two-way traffic on the Umiam Bridge, effective immediately, following the completion of extensive structural repairs.

The Meghalaya Energy Corporation Limited (MeECL) undertook the repair work, which began last December. The upgrades included replacing bearings, adjusting expansion joints, and raising the bridge structure by 5-10 mm to improve stability.

For the past eight months, the bridge’s one-way traffic restriction caused significant congestion between Guwahati and Shillong. The decision to reopen the bridge for two-way traffic comes as a significant relief for commuters.

“Following thorough evaluations by the high-powered committee, we have authorized the resumption of two-way traffic, with restrictions for vehicles carrying loads under 4 metric tons,” announced Power Minister AT Mondal in a press release.

The committee, which comprised district authorities, IIT-Guwahati consultants, and Public Works Department officials, oversaw the repair process. The total cost of the repairs amounted to Rs 19.9 crore.

Mondal assured that minor repairs, such as fixing upstream cracks, will not disrupt traffic. The reopening of the bridge is expected to ease transportation issues and restore normalcy on this vital route connecting Guwahati and Shillong.