Cachar District Administration enforces 48-hour closure of the Gammon bridge for urgent safety repairs

The District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), Cachar, has issued an urgent directive ordering the complete restriction of all vehicular movement over the Gammon Bridge on NH-6 following critical damage detected in its structural bearings. The decision, taken under Section 30 of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, aims to ensure immediate repair and safeguard public life and property.

Acting on a formal communication received from the General Manager (P), PMU-Silchar, NHIDCL, the District Administration was informed that several bearings on the bridge have broken and require urgent replacement. NHIDCL has recommended the temporary closure of the bridge to facilitate uninterrupted repair works and prevent any potential risk arising from continued vehicular movement.

Meanwhile, Roktim Baruah, ACS, Addl. District Commissioner & CEO, District Disaster Management Authority, Cachar, has ordered the complete prohibition of all motorised traffic over the Gammon Bridge for 48 hours, effective from 6:00 PM on 12.12.2025 to 6:00 PM on 14.12.2025. Pedestrians will be permitted to cross, but no vehicles, regardless of category, will be allowed during this period. The administration clarified that the closure is essential to protect the structural integrity of the bridge and ensure the safety of commuters.

To maintain smooth transportation during the repair period, a comprehensive traffic diversion plan has been activated. Vehicles are advised to use the Kalain-Khambarbazar-Bihara-Baburbazar-Borkhola (NH-27) route as the primary diversion route in accordance with axle load restrictions mandated by the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways. The Silchar-Kalain Road (SH-38) will remain accessible only for light motor vehicles, passenger vehicles, and goods vehicles below 15 MT. Commuters have been urged to follow these alternative routes to avoid congestion and ensure seamless movement.

For emergency response and public safety, SDRF teams have been stationed at the Siddeshwar and Latimara Ghats, while police personnel, deployed under the supervision of the Superintendent of Police, Cachar, will manage law and order at key points, including the Kargil Point (E & D Colony), Khambar Bazar Point, Baburbazar (near the RCC Bridge), and Bhangarpar (near the Bailey Bridge). The Circle Officer of the Katigorah Revenue Circle will oversee operations at both temporary ghats, supported by CQRT members and Aapda Mitra volunteers.

The District Administration also reiterated that the order has been issued purely in the interest of public safety and efficient transport management, and will remain in force until further notice. The directive carries the approval of the District Commissioner, Cachar.

This is stated in a press release issued by the Regional Office of Information & Public Relations, Barak Valley Zone, Silchar, Assam.