Indian Army builds 150-foot suspension bridge over flowing river in Sikkim in 48 hours

While parts of Sikkim continue to be hit by heavy rains and certain areas are cut off from the outside world, Indian Army engineers have managed to build a 150-foot-long suspension bridge across a river in North Sikkim in less than 48 hours.

The bridge has restored connectivity to border villages cut off from the outside world due to persistent heavy rains and brought much-needed relief to the population affected by the storms. The suspension bridge was constructed over water at a speed of over 20 knots and the entire project was completed in less than 48 hours.

“The construction of the bridge was carried out under exceptionally difficult conditions. Despite the adverse weather and fast-flowing water, the Indian Army engineers demonstrated their unparalleled engineering expertise,” said a press release from the Ministry of Defense.

Photos and videos shared by the ministry show the bridge being completed under a fast-flowing river. According to the press release, the newly constructed pedestrian suspension bridge will not only reconnect the isolated areas but also facilitate the movement of people and the delivery of essential relief supplies to the affected village.

“The bridge will play a critical role in ensuring that residents of these border villages have access to the necessary resources and support during this difficult time,” the ministry said.

Last week, about 1,200 tourists were stranded in North Sikkim due to landslides caused by torrential rains. In October 2023, Sikkim experienced one of its worst environmental disasters when a glacial lake flood caused the collapse of the Teesta III dam, killing more than 100 people and affecting thousands more. The World Meteorological Organization’s State of the Climate Asia 2023 report in April 2024 described the floods as one of the worst climate-related disasters to hit the continent in the past year.

“The proactive measures taken by the Indian Army in North Sikkim underscore its resolve to support and protect the local population and reaffirms its role as a pillar of strength in times of need. The Trishakti Corps will continue to monitor the situation and provide all necessary support to ensure the security of the affected areas,” the ministry’s press release said.