5 Arrested, Cops Under Scanner After Harang Bridge Collapse; DC Assures Barak Valley Is Not Isolated

Five individuals have been arrested in connection with the collapse of the Harang River bridge at Bhangarpar on the Silchar–Kalain Road, which gave way around 2 AM on June 18 while two overloaded limestone trucks were crossing. Among those arrested are three staffers from Central Weigh Bridge—Nizam Uddin Barbhuiya, Kripashindu Baishnab, and Altaf Hussain Barbhuiya—and two from Bharat Electronics Weigh Bridge—Sankhu Bhattacharjee and Gautam Chandra Paul. Cachar Police have also sent three personnel, including an Assistant Sub-Inspector, to “Reserve Close”, a disciplinary holding measure pending inquiry.

On the other hand, the District Commissioner of Cachar ensured that alternative roads are available, and a pre-fabricated bridge will be installed by NHIDCL, which is being sourced from Ranchi.

The collapse triggered widespread panic among residents and on social media, with fears circulating that Barak Valley had been cut off from the rest of the region. However, officials quickly moved to clarify the situation. District Commissioner Mridul Yadav and Superintendent of Police Numal Mahatta addressed the media later that evening, confirming that Barak Valley remains fully connected through alternative routes. Over 200 vehicles were reported to have passed through by Wednesday evening via roads through Rajnagar and TRK, now open for passenger and commercial vehicles up to 10 tonnes.

“There is only a marginal increase in travel distance—just 2 to 3 kilometres more,” said DC Yadav, urging people not to spread or believe in misinformation. He also confirmed that teams from the NDRF and SDRF, along with an army boat, have been deployed to assist locals, especially students, in crossing the river safely and free of charge.

Alongside the immediate response, steps are also being taken to restore connectivity. DC Yadav informed that NHIDCL has already placed an order for a 40-metre pre-fabricated bridge from Ranchi. The structure is expected to arrive within five days and be assembled in ten, making it possible to restore normal traffic movement within 15 days.

Addressing public concerns about potential food shortages, both the DC and SP reassured citizens that the situation is well under control. The Food and Merchant Association has confirmed that there is sufficient stock to last at least two months. “There is no food crisis. Life in Barak Valley is as normal as ever,” said SP Mahatta.

On the accountability front, a multi-pronged official inquiry is now underway. DC Yadav stated that the investigation will focus on three key areas: the structural failure of the bridge, the apparent lapse in enforcing the 40-tonne weight limit, and the failure to act despite the bridge’s location near a police outpost. SP Mahatta added that departmental action will be taken against anyone found guilty of negligence.

Despite the disruption, transport through Kalain, Katigorah, and onwards to Shillong remains operational. “Only a small section of local commuters is facing inconvenience, and even that is being actively managed on the ground,” said SP Mahatta. Both officials urged the public to rely on official updates and refrain from panic or rumour-mongering as swift corrective measures continue.