Assam: Foundation laid for new bridge in Margherita Tea Estate, ending years of hardship

Bringing long-awaited relief to hundreds of residents, the foundation stone for a new bridge on the Gara Line of Margherita Tea Estate was laid on Tuesday, January 13 marking a significant step towards improving connectivity and daily mobility in the area. The bridge, to be constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 10.13 lakh, will replace a dilapidated British-era structure that had collapsed years ago, causing severe inconvenience to locals.

The earlier bridge, built during the colonial period, had fallen into complete disrepair and eventually collapsed, cutting off safe passage for residents of the tea garden. Despite repeated appeals by locals to the tea garden authorities, no reconstruction was undertaken, forcing residents—particularly patients, students, and the elderly—to endure prolonged hardship.

Responding to the long-standing demand, the Kumarpatty Gaon Panchayat under the Margherita Development Block has taken the initiative to construct the new bridge under the 15th Finance Commission scheme. The project is expected to restore crucial connectivity for the Gara Line population and significantly ease daily commuting challenges.

The foundation-laying ceremony was led by Margherita MLA Bhaskar Sharma, who formally inaugurated the project by cutting the ribbon and performing traditional rituals, including breaking a coconut and lighting incense, lamps, and candles to mark the auspicious beginning.

The event was attended by several local leaders and dignitaries, including Kumarpatty Gaon Panchayat President Amit Kaul, Vice President Anjali Gwala, senior BJP leader Bhim Karmakar, Simanta Madhav Katoky, Margherita Anchalik Panchayat President Munmi Gogoi, Kumarpatty Gaon Panchayat Secretary Bhaskar Baruah, along with other respected community members.

Expressing relief and optimism, residents of the Margherita Tea Estate extended heartfelt gratitude to MLA Bhaskar Sharma for his proactive support and cooperation in facilitating the construction of the bridge, which they believe will transform daily life in the area.