Road Transport Ministry to Engage New Contractor for Stalled Jorhat-Majuli Bridge Project in Assam

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MORTH) has decided to replace the contractor responsible for the Jorhat-Majuli bridge construction over the Brahmaputra River in Assam. This decision follows a halt in work since September, according to a Chief Minister's Office (CMO) official. The selection of a new contractor will be prioritised to resume the project.

During a meeting in New Delhi, MORTH discussed the slow progress of the bridge with stakeholders. The CMO shared on X that crucial decisions were made, including replacing the current contractor. The performance guarantee of this contractor will be forfeited due to unmet timelines.

Bridge Construction Challenges

The construction of this significant bridge has been stalled since September 5. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had informed Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari about the situation in the same month. The Engineering Procurement and Construction (EPC) contractor, UP State Bridge Corporation Limited, has already vacated the site.

Chief Minister Sarma expressed concerns over further delays affecting the project's timely completion. He emphasised that this infrastructure is crucial for Majuli's connectivity and economic growth. Sarma urged the union minister to ensure work resumes without affecting the December 2025 completion target.

Project Details and Future Steps

The two-lane bridge project, including approaches over the Brahmaputra River, connects Majuli on the north bank to Jorhat on the south bank. MORTH awarded this project in August 2021 with an estimated contract value of Rs 650 crore. The ministry aims to identify a new contractor swiftly to continue construction.

The CMO highlighted that all aspects of the project's slow progress were thoroughly examined during the meeting. The decision to replace the contractor was made to prevent further delays and ensure timely completion.

This bridge is vital for enhancing connectivity and fostering economic development in Majuli and surrounding regions. Ensuring its completion by December 2025 remains a priority for both state and central authorities.