SHILLONG: As preparations for the closure of the Umiam Bridge for retrofitting approaches, authorities have outlined specific alternative routes to mitigate inconvenience for commuters during the anticipated six-hour closure.
Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs) are advised to utilise either the Shillong-Mawtawar-Umiam Airport Road (VIP Road)-Lad Umroi Road, spanning 45 km, or the longer Shillong-NEIGRIHMS-New Shillong Towanship-Diengpasoh-Lad Umroi Road, covering 63 km.
Additionally, an alternative route via UCC-Mawlyndep-Mawmaram Road has been designated for vehicles bound for Mairang/Nongstoin, with a distance of 39 km.
For heavier vehicles, including Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMVs) and buses, recommended routes include the Shillong-Laitkor-Mawryngkneng-Lad Umroi Road, covering 92 km, or the longer Shillong-Mairang-Nongkhlaw-Guwahati Airport Road, extending over 120 km.
Earlier, the Meghalaya Power Generation Corporation Limited (MePGCL) had announced on March 21 that the Umiam Bridge would be closed for six hours on March 31 for retrofitting.
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According to the MePGCL’s plan, the bridge over the dam will experience a total traffic blockage from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm on March 31. Only ambulances will be permitted to cross the bridge during this period.
Retrofitting works will continue for eight days until April 8. Following the completion of the bridge work, the downstream half of the road will be accessible for vehicles weighing up to 4 tons throughout the entire eight-day period until 7:00 am on April 8, 2024.
Subsequently, starting from 7:00 am on April 8, vehicles weighing up to 15 tons will be allowed downstream of the bridge.
The Deputy Commissioners of East Khasi Hills and Ri Bhoi Districts will collaborate with the Police Departments to ensure the proposed arrangements are enforced effectively during this period.
