Shillong-Dawki Road Project: Umshyrpi Bridge Reaches Major Milestone

The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation (NHIDCL) has successfully installed four large girders for the Umshyrpi Bridge at Rilbong—marking a major milestone in the first package of the Shillong-Dawki Road project. This progress fuels optimism that the segment will be completed by December this year.

Installation efforts faced considerable challenges due to the region’s difficult terrain and restrictions on daytime operations. “It was a herculean task. Safety was our topmost priority as we navigated massive cranes, heavy girders, inclement weather, low visibility, and challenging terrain—along with growing public frustration. We’re relieved to have accomplished it,” said an NHIDCL official. The work was carried out during nightly shifts lasting seven to eight hours. Slab-casting for the bridge is now underway.

In addition to the Umshyrpi Bridge, NHIDCL has completed four minor bridges and 25 out of 27 culverts within the first package, which involves a four-lane road segment. Structural work on a vehicular underpass near the 101 HQ area is 90% finished. The project also features two Greenfield bypasses: a 1.9 km bypass at 3rd Mile and a 2.9 km bypass at 8th Mile.

Officials noted that prolonged monsoon conditions were a major factor behind earlier delays in the project timeline.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.