The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has officially appointed SPS Construction India Pvt. Ltd. as the new contractor for the stalled Majuli-Jorhat bridge project in Assam. This development follows the cessation of work by the previous contractor, UP State Bridge Corporation Ltd (UPSBCL), in September 2024. The project, which aims to connect Majuli Island with the mainland, has been delayed for over a year. With the issuance of the Letter of Acceptance (LOA) to SPS Construction, construction is set to resume, bringing renewed hope for the completion of this vital infrastructure link.
Background of the Project
The Majuli-Jorhat bridge is an ambitious infrastructure project designed to connect Majuli Island, the world's largest riverine island, to the mainland of Assam. The bridge is expected to span approximately 8.25 kilometers over the Brahmaputra River, significantly enhancing connectivity and promoting economic development in the region. The project was initially awarded to UPSBCL; however, work was halted in September 2024 due to unspecified reasons, leading to a substantial delay in the project's progress.
Appointment of New Contractor
In response to the prolonged delay, MoRTH has appointed SPS Construction India Pvt. Ltd., a Haryana-based firm with expertise in major infrastructure projects, to complete the remaining work on the bridge. The company submitted a bid of Rs. 657.66 crore for the construction of the main bridge and its approaches, covering a total distance of 8.03 kilometers. The bid was accepted as the lowest evaluated and substantially responsive offer. A performance security of Rs. 32.88 crore has been mandated as part of the contract formalities.
Project Details and Timeline
The scope of work assigned to SPS Construction includes the construction of the main bridge segment spanning 6.81 kilometers, along with the approach roads. The overall project cost has been revised to Rs. 1,019.17 crore, reflecting an escalation of nearly Rs. 94 crore from the initial estimate. While the LOA does not specify a definitive timeline for completion, the Union government has emphasized the importance of expediting the project to meet the connectivity needs of Majuli Island.
Significance of the Bridge
The completion of the Majuli-Jorhat bridge holds immense significance for the residents of Majuli Island. Currently, the island's connectivity is limited, and the bridge is expected to facilitate smoother transportation, boost tourism, and promote economic activities in the region. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has expressed optimism that the resumption of construction will pave the way for timely completion, enhancing the quality of life for the island's inhabitants.
Conclusion
The appointment of SPS Construction India Pvt. Ltd. marks a crucial step forward in the realization of the Majuli-Jorhat bridge project. While challenges remain, the renewed momentum offers hope for the timely completion of this essential infrastructure link. The successful execution of the project will not only improve connectivity but also contribute to the socio-economic development of Majuli Island and the broader Assam region.
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