Army builds footbridge to reconnect Siliguri and Mirik

Guwahati: The Indian Army’s Trishakti Corps bridged the gap at the Balason River in North Bengal. Heavy rain wiped out the original crossing, cutting off travel between Siliguri and Mirik. The district administration called for help. Soldiers moved fast. They finished a 34-metre foot bridge at Dudhia to get pedestrians moving again.

The temporary structure keeps life running. It restores access to border points like Pashupati Phatak and helps locals get around safely. An Army official said, "The Indian Army remains committed to extending support to civil administration and local communities whenever required."

Work continues on the ground. The Army plans to launch a wider Bailey Bridge soon. This future project will handle cars and trucks to bring tourists back to the area. Officials confirmed they are prioritizing structural safety for the new installations until the government builds a permanent road replacement.