Army-PWD Collaboration Restores Lifeline at Dudhia as Major Infrastructure Projects Gain Momentum in Darjeeling Hills

KalimNews, June 23, 2026, Siliguri: After disconnection for four days, the people of Dudhia are finally reconnected by constructing a 34 mtr footbridge. Darjeeling Member of Parliament Raju Bista on Tuesday expressed his deep appreciation to the 5 Engineer Regiment of Sukna-based 33 Corps of the Indian Army and the Public Works Department (PWD) of the Government of West Bengal for successfully completing a 34-metre temporary footbridge at Dudhia, restoring a crucial link for local residents affected by recent disasters.

The newly constructed temporary footbridge has re-established an essential route for the people of the region, enabling the movement of residents and improving access to vital services. The achievement has been widely recognized as a shining example of effective cooperation between the Indian Army and the West Bengal Government during a period of significant challenges.

Conveying his gratitude, Bista acknowledged the dedication and hard work of all those involved in the project, emphasizing that the restored connectivity would provide immediate relief to local communities who had been facing difficulties due to disrupted transportation links.

The development was highlighted during a review meeting chaired by the MP with senior officials of the West Bengal Government to evaluate the progress of major road and bridge infrastructure projects across the Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts. The meeting was attended by State PWD Principal Secretary Antara Acharya, the Principal Secretary of the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA), the District Magistrate of Darjeeling, and senior representatives from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL).

A key focus of the discussion was the reconstruction of the Dudhey Bridge, which had been completely washed away during the devastating landslide of October 2025. Officials informed the meeting that the permanent bridge is expected to be completed by February 2027. In the meantime, following the collapse of an earlier temporary bridge during heavy rainfall last week, the administration sought assistance from the Indian Army for the construction of a temporary Bailey bridge. Authorities indicated that this structure is likely to be ready within the next fifteen days, providing an additional and more durable connectivity solution.

Another significant issue discussed was the proposed transfer of the strategically important Rohini–Kurseong Road from the GTA to the PWD. Bista described the road as a critical transportation corridor that supports tourism, emergency services, daily commuting, and the movement of essential commodities. According to him, bringing the road under the PWD would facilitate improved maintenance and management through greater technical expertise and stronger financial support.

The review meeting also examined several initiatives aimed at easing traffic congestion and improving transportation networks in Siliguri, Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Kurseong. Among the major projects under consideration are the proposed Siliguri Ring Road, alternative connectivity routes to Darjeeling and Kalimpong, widening of roads in Sonada, development of the Old Military Road connecting Chimney in Kurseong to Ghoom, and a proposed Kurseong–Siliguri route through Ambotia and Gammon Bridge.

Officials further revealed that NHIDCL has already initiated technical surveys to identify the most suitable alignment for an alternative road connecting Siliguri and Darjeeling. Efforts are also underway to expedite approvals for the proposed Circular Road that will link Lebong Bazar and Third Mile Bazar on Peshok Road through Rangeroong, as well as a new road connection between Lebong and Teesta Bazar.

The MP also reviewed the progress of road and bridge projects that he had recommended under the Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF). To accelerate implementation, the District Magistrates of Darjeeling and Kalimpong will establish joint survey teams comprising officials from the GTA and the PWD to conduct detailed field assessments and expedite project execution.

Highlighting the importance of infrastructure development, Bista stated that enhanced connectivity remains one of the most important drivers of economic growth, tourism, trade, and overall development across North Bengal. He expressed confidence that the ongoing and proposed projects would significantly strengthen the region’s transportation network and public infrastructure in the years ahead.

The completion of the temporary footbridge at Dudhia has received widespread appreciation from local residents. Many people praised the Indian Army for its swift response and technical expertise in restoring connectivity at a crucial time. Residents described the bridge as a remarkable achievement that has brought immediate relief to affected communities.

At the same time, community members emphasized the importance of maintaining strict safety measures to ensure that pedestrians can use the bridge securely until permanent infrastructure is completed.

Several residents remarked that when governments, public agencies, and leadership work with commitment and determination, essential projects can be delivered efficiently for the benefit of the people. Many expressed heartfelt thanks to all those involved in the effort and conveyed their respect and admiration for the Indian Army’s dedication to public service.

Others specifically congratulated the 5 Engineer Regiment, noting that their professionalism, engineering expertise, and tireless efforts in constructing the 34-metre temporary footbridge had successfully restored a vital lifeline for local residents and demonstrated the Army’s unwavering commitment to serving communities in times of need.