Indian Army engineers have built a 150-foot suspension bridge in north Sikkim over a river, which was completed in less than 48 hours despite heavy rain and flooding.
The suspension bridge reestablished the connection to border villages cutoff owing to incessant heavy rains while providing solace for the locals affected by the harsh climatic conditions. The entire process of putting up a suspension bridge over running waters at speeds exceeding 20 knots took less than two days.
“The Indian army engineers have shown that they are highly skilled professionals even when working under extremely difficult circumstances,” said a statement from Ministry of Defence.
The ministry’s pictures and videos showed workers applying finishing touches to the project beneath a fast flowing river. As per the press release, the newly constructed foot suspension bridge not only reconnects isolated areas but also allows for people’s movement and easy distribution of relief items in these affected localities
According to the ministry, “this bridge will be pivotal to ensure that essential resources and support can reach these border villagers during this difficult period.”
A few days ago over twelve hundred tourists were stranded in North Sikkim due to landslides following excessive rainfall. In October 2023, one of India’s largest environmental disasters happened when Teesta III hydroelectric dam broke after an outburst flood from glacial Lake killing more than one hundred people and affecting thousands others. Consequently, it was concluded by World Meteorological Organisations April 2024 report on ‘State of the Climate Asia’ that floods were among extreme climate events ever recorded last year on Earth since it is described as one of worst climate related disaster on continent.
“The Indian Army has taken proactive steps to buttress its commitment towards being there for its people in times like this”, according to press release from Ministry of Defence – “It stands tall as a strong hold pillar”. Trishakti Corps remains vigilant as we continue monitoring developments in order provide help wherever needed, confirming the safety of lives and property,” said the ministry’s press statement.
