Mon-Namtola bridge collapse; NPCC spokesperson urges immediate reconstruction

Mokokchung, 16 December (MTNews): The Mon-Namtola Bridge on National Highway 702 collapsed on December 15 due to a fully laden 12-wheel truck. The wooden deck gave way on the Assam-Nagaland border, connecting Tizit and Namtola. No injuries were reported, and a travel advisory has been issued, restricting heavy vehicles. Commuters have been advised to take the Jaboka-Pentom road until the bridge is restored.

Reacting to the incident, the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee spokesperson, Er T Thomas Konyak, through a press statement received here, stated that the collapse of the Mon-Namtola Bridge has caused immeasurable misery to the people of Mon, especially during this festive season. Stating that it is the only lifeline bridge of Mon district, Konyak alleged that the bridge was left neglected for many years, despite several appeals, with the government turning a deaf ear to them.

“This British Era wooden bridge, also popularly called ‘Hamilton Bridge,’ on the stretch of NH-702 connecting with the neighboring state of Assam may be the only bridge of its kind on any National Highways all over India,” stated Konyak. He further informed that representations were made to the government many times by various organizations over the years.

“Despite the fact that the MLAs from both Tizit and Sonari are part of the ruling government in both the states, it is baffling as to why such an important bridge was left neglected for so many years,” added Konyak. Although Konyak believes it is fortunate that there has been no loss of lives in the mishap, he said, this should serve as a strong reminder to the government to construct the bridge with utmost priority at the earliest.