PALASBARI: The highly awaited Palasbari–Sualkuchi bridge spanning the Brahmaputra River is expected to be completed by June 2028, as per the officials managing the project. Construction officially commenced in mid-2024, with Larsen & Toubro (L&T) executing the project under the Assam Public Works Department (PWD). The financing for the bridge is being provided by the New Development Bank (NDB), which was established by the BRICS nations—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The total projected cost of the bridge project is Rs 3,197.20 crore, which encompasses expenses related to land acquisition and other necessary infrastructure.
The funding is allocated in an 80:20 ratio, with the NDB covering 80% and the Assam government contributing the remaining 20%. The project, officially named “Construction of a Four-Lane Extradosed PSC Bridge Over the Brahmaputra River Connecting Palasbari and Sualkuchi, Including viaducts, approaches, and River Training Works Under EPC Mode (ABP-II),” will feature a main bridge span measuring 3.6 km. Furthermore, approach roads of 5.61 km on the Palasbari side and 3 km on the Sualkuchi side will be constructed. The total contract value awarded to L&T is Rs 2,688.54 crore. During a press briefing held at L&T’s project office in Borjhar on Tuesday, Chief Safety Officer Pankaj Kumar highlighted the importance of safety for individuals navigating the Brahmaputra by boat or ferry. He urged river passengers to remain vigilant as construction activities, including the erection of structures in the river’s center, are taking place continuously.
“We have issued specific guidelines for the safe movement of boats and vessels to avert accidents. Certain areas are now restricted due to ongoing construction and the installation of poles. Warning signals have been established to guide river traffic safely,” Kumar remarked. Also in attendance at the press conference were Dr. Bhrigu Prasad Saikia, Head of the Environment Department; Project Manager Rajat Vaid; and Officer-in-Charge B.K. Tiwari.
The bridge, anticipated to greatly enhance connectivity between the Kamrup and Nalbari districts of lower Assam, had its foundation stone laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 14, 2023. Officials have stated that work is currently underway on all 25 bridge foundations.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma previously confirmed the target for completion in 2028, designating the bridge as a key infrastructure project for Assam under the Assam Bridge Project Phase II. L&T has urged river passengers to adhere to safety protocols as construction intensifies on the Brahmaputra.
