The long-awaited Rime bridge over the Hijum river in Arunachal Pradesh’s West Siang district has been completed, bringing an end to years of connectivity challenges for local residents, officials said on Saturday.
The 15-metre bridge has been constructed under the Chief Minister’s Comprehensive State Road Development Plan at an estimated cost of Rs. 4 crore. The project was executed by the state Public Works Department (PWD).
For years, the absence of a bridge over the Hijum river had left residents grappling with poor road access, particularly during the monsoon season.
The issue had also taken a political turn in 2023 when local residents threatened to boycott the 2024 Lok Sabha and Assembly elections, issuing a “No Bridge, No Vote” ultimatum to the state government.
With the bridge now completed, local leaders say the new infrastructure will significantly improve connectivity in the region.
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Aalo West MLA Topin Ete said the bridge would provide major relief to residents by enhancing road access.
He also thanked Chief Minister Pema Khandu and advisor to the PWD minister Phurpa Tsering for supporting the project.
“This was a commitment I had made to the people long ago, and I am glad that we have been able to fulfil it,” Ete said.
According to contractor Pokpe Rime, the project was completed well ahead of schedule. While the original timeline for completion was three years, the bridge was finished in just 10 months.
