Bogibeel Bridge, India’s longest rail-cum-road bridge, is located in the northeastern state of Assam, spanning across the Brahmaputra River. It was inaugurated on December 25, 2018, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The construction of the bridge began in 2002 and was completed at a cost of around ₹5,900 crore.
The Bogibeel Bridge is a double-decker bridge, with a two-lane road on the upper deck and a railway line on the lower deck. The bridge has a length of 4.94 km, making it the longest rail-cum-road bridge in India. It connects the districts of Dhemaji and Dibrugarh in Assam and is expected to reduce travel time and distance between the two districts by a significant margin.
One of the most remarkable features of the Bogibeel Bridge is that it is a 100% welded bridge. Unlike most other bridges, which are bolted, riveted or a combination of both, the Bogibeel Bridge is entirely welded. This makes the bridge much stronger and more durable, ensuring its longevity even in the face of extreme weather conditions and natural disasters like earthquakes and floods.
Another interesting fact about the Bogibeel Bridge is that it is equipped with an anti-collision system that helps to prevent train accidents. This system uses a combination of GPS, radar, and other sensors to detect the location of all trains passing through the bridge and to automatically apply the brakes if there is a possibility of a collision.
The Bogibeel Bridge is also a significant infrastructure project that has provided employment opportunities to thousands of people in the region. The construction of the bridge required the expertise of engineers, architects, and construction workers, providing a boost to the local economy.
Moreover, the Bogibeel Bridge is an essential link in the government’s efforts to improve connectivity in the northeastern region of India. The region has long been neglected in terms of infrastructure development, which has led to a lack of economic growth and opportunities. The bridge is expected to play a significant role in changing this by providing better connectivity to the rest of the country.
In addition to providing better connectivity, the Bogibeel Bridge has also helped to improve the security situation in the region. Prior to the bridge’s construction, the only way to cross the Brahmaputra River was by ferry, which was often dangerous and subject to attacks by militants. The bridge has made it much easier and safer for people to cross the river and has helped to reduce the incidence of militant attacks.
In conclusion, the Bogibeel Bridge is a remarkable engineering feat that has significant implications for the development of the northeastern region of India. Its construction has provided employment opportunities, improved connectivity and security, and demonstrated India’s capabilities in building large-scale infrastructure projects. As India continues to invest in infrastructure development, the Bogibeel Bridge serves as a shining example of what can be achieved with vision, determination, and expertise.
Keywords: Bogibeel Bridge, Brahmaputra River, rail-cum-road bridge, 100% welded bridge, anti-collision system, northeastern region, infrastructure development, employment opportunities, security, connectivity.
