A crucial road link in Sikkim’s Dzongu region was restored within five days after heavy rainfall washed away a bailey bridge over Phee Chu Khola on June 28. The rapid reconstruction by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has reconnected the remote constituency with the rest of the state, bringing relief to residents dependent on the route for daily movement and essential supplies.

The original bailey bridge on the Phidang–Sankalang stretch was severely damaged following continuous and intense overnight rainfall. The collapse disrupted traffic movement entirely, cutting off vehicles, commuters, emergency services, and the supply of essential commodities. For nearly five days, the region faced significant isolation, highlighting the vulnerability of infrastructure in the monsoon-prone Himalayan terrain.

In response to the emergency, the BRO’s 107 Road Construction Company under the General Reserve Engineer Force (GREF), operating under the 758 Border Roads Task Force of Project Swastik, undertook urgent restoration work. A new bailey bridge was constructed adjacent to the damaged structure, with teams working round the clock despite persistent rainfall, difficult terrain, and challenging working conditions.

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The newly built bridge was inaugurated by Forest Minister and Dzongu MLA Pintso Namgyal Lepcha, in the presence of Mangan Deputy Commissioner Anant Jain, Superintendent of Police LB Chettri, and BRO officials, including senior engineering personnel and representatives from Project Swastik. Local residents also attended the event, marking the reopening of a vital lifeline for the region.

Speaking at the inauguration, the Forest Minister expressed gratitude to the BRO engineers, labourers, and supporting staff for completing the work in record time under adverse weather conditions. He noted that while the bridge is a temporary structure, it reflects the organisation’s efficiency and preparedness in responding to natural disasters. Officials also emphasized the importance of continued coordination during the monsoon season to prevent prolonged isolation in the future.

Authorities confirmed that the current bailey bridge is a temporary arrangement to immediately restore connectivity. A permanent bridge will be constructed after the monsoon season to ensure long-term stability and resilience. With the reopening of the route, movement of people, transport services, and essential goods has resumed, restoring normalcy to the affected Dzongu region.

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