The District Magistrate of Namsai, C.R. Khampa, has issued a prohibitory order restricting the movement of heavy vehicles over the Tengapani Bridge along the Namsai–Chongkham Road starting June 30, 2025. The bridge, located near the iconic Golden Pagoda, will undergo critical repairs to its bearings and expansion joints, necessitating temporary traffic diversions. The order comes after the 1444 Bridge Construction Company (GREF) flagged urgent concerns over the bridge’s condition due to mounting stress from heavy traffic loads. Officials say the repair work is essential to avoid long-term damage and to restore the bridge’s capacity for safe vehicular passage.
According to the district administration’s directive, all heavy trucks and loaded vehicles will be rerouted via the Dholla–Sadiya–Sunpura road until the work is completed. Only light vehicles—those under 15 tons—will be permitted to use the newly built twin Bailey Bridges on the alternate route.In a unique arrangement, passenger buses are required to halt before the bridge and offload all passengers, who must cross the bridge on foot. Additionally, to avoid undue strain on the temporary structures, only one vehicle will be allowed to cross at a time.The administration has assigned the Superintendent of Police, ADC of Chongkham, and CO of Lathao to strictly enforce the traffic control measures. Signage and personnel will be deployed to guide commuters and ensure compliance.
“The safety of the public is our top priority,” said an official from the Namsai district administration. “We request the public to cooperate with the temporary inconveniences for the larger benefit of maintaining essential infrastructure.”
