Amidst the ongoing Lok Sabha election, the construction of India’s longest river bridge has sparked a heated political debate in Dhubri, Assam.
The 20-kilometer bridge has become a pivotal issue in the triangular contest involving All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF), Assam Gana Parishad (AGP), and the Congress party.
However, many residents including students, businessmen and commuters have expressed their happiness for the upcoming bridge as they confront numerous challenges associated with the current boat transportation system.
One such resident expressed such enthusiasm, and spoke
“If the bridge gets built, the benefit will be that we can reach Meghalaya in a much shorter time. It will make things easier for businesses since transporting goods on boats is very challenging. With the bridge, it will be much easier. It takes three hours by boat, so this bridge will save a lot of time. – the resident.
A student too also shared is enthusiasm and said
“Once the bridge is completed, it will help us in a lot of ways, like in coordination because it takes a long time to travel by boat, approximately 3 hours. Also, it’s a huge river, which is dangerous too. Dhubri and Meghalaya, both states, will benefit from this bridge. – Another resident.
Now this longest bridge has become a part of the central theme among three competing parties. Each claiming credit for the initiation of the project. With different stories of origin.
Like Javed Alam of AGP (Ally of NDA) has largely given credit to the current ruling government and emphasized “The NDA government started the work of this bridge. In 2021, Prime Minister Modi laid the foundation of this bridge, and the construction is progressing rapidly. It will be a significant gift for the people of Assam.”
However, the AIUDF president Badruddin Ajmal and Congress too have claimed credit with AIUDF claiming that this bridge was a result of his efforts. “I had raised this issue in Parliament during the Congress government and then during the BJP government, ensuring the people of Assam received this gift. – said the three-time MLA of Dhubri.
Congress too claimed the credit, mentioning the bridge in its political bridge.
But the Dhubri Phulbari Bridge stands as a beacon of improved infrastructure for the citizens of Assam. This upcoming bridge is expected to cut the trave time between Dhubri (Assam) and Phulwari (Meghalaya) by 200 kilometres. Thus, streamlining trade and other essential activities.
The four parliamentary constituencies of Assam will go on polls on May 7, 2024.