New Delhi: Even as the nationwide lockdown continues, Border Roads Organisation (BRO) constructed the Daporijo bridge over Subansiri river in record time, keeping in mind utmost precautions against COVID-19, so as to connect this strategic Line of Communication in Arunachal Pradesh.

The bridge is a strategic link towards the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China. All supplies, rations, construction material and medicines pass over this bridge. Old Bridge developed cracks which could lead to a major catastrophe like on July 26, 1992 when a passenger bus fell off the bridge leaving no survivors.

With the intervention of Director General Border Roads (DGBR) and CE Arunank expeditious sanctions were obtained from the Defence Ministry and Arunachal Government. The difficult and dangerous launch was completed in record time adhering to all COVID-19 precautions.

The construction work on the bridge began on March 17, 2020 by 23 BRTF. Finally after 27 days on April 14, 2020 the bridge was jacked down successfully and safely on the supports. It has been successfully upgraded from class 24 tonnes to class 40 tonnes thereby allowing heavier vehicles to pass catering for not only Army requirements but the future Infrastructure development requirements of Upper Subansiri district.

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu inaugurated it over video conferencing and open for traffic movement from April 20.

The safe and early execution of the bridge represents the seamless coordination and cooperation between the BRO, Defence Ministry and Arunachal Government.