Traffic halted for hours on Bhupen Hazarika Setu in Assam after storm

Vehicular movement on the Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Setu, India’s longest river bridge, was halted for several hours on Saturday after a powerful storm accompanied by heavy rainfall lashed the region.
 

Strong gusty winds and intense showers reduced visibility sharply, forcing hundreds of vehicles to stop midway on the bridge and at both entry points. Motorists reported hazardous driving conditions as the storm swept through the area.
 

“One could barely see the vehicle ahead. The fierce winds and pouring rain made it impossible and unsafe to move forward,” a stranded commuter said.
 

Officials said the halt in traffic was a precautionary measure to prevent accidents amid the severe weather. No casualties or mishaps were reported.
 

Authorities added that cotton seeds from trees along the bridge, carried by strong winds, further affected visibility and contributed to the disruption.
 

Commuters called for improved preparedness, including advance weather alerts and an emergency response system for travellers using the key connectivity route.
 

Traffic resumed gradually after the storm weakened, with officials continuing to monitor the situation.
 

According to the India Meteorological Department, Tinsukia is expected to witness generally cloudy conditions with spells of rain or thundershowers. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds are likely to continue as part of ongoing pre-monsoon activity in the region.