A key Bailey bridge over the Tuivai River in Manipur's Churachandpur district collapsed on Thursday evening, disrupting a vital transport link in the region, reports said.
The bridge, located between Sinzawl and Khuanggin villages along National Highway 102B, gave way while two cement-laden trucks were crossing it.
However, fortunately, no casualties have been reported.
The bridge served as an important supply route for Churachandpur, connecting the district to Silchar in Assam as well as other areas via Mizoram. The collapse poses a major impact on supply chains in the region.
Meanwhile, as per authorities, restoration works have been launched on an urgent footing.
Teams from the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (NHIDCL), along with the construction company and other authorities, were alerted immediately, and steps have been initiated to reinstall a replacement Bailey bridge.
The district administration has prioritised the repair work, stressing the need to re-establish this critical link to ensure the steady flow of goods and services.
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Following the collapse of the Sinzawl Bailey bridge, the Tuivai "Unity Bridge" on National Highway-2 (Tipaimukh Road) remains the only operational road link connecting Manipur and Mizoram for the affected areas.
However, authorities have imposed strict load restrictions on the Unity Bridge, barring heavy vehicle due to safety concerns.
With the main route cut off and alternative access limited, the transportation of goods and passenger vehicles in the area is likely to face major disruptions, raising concerns over the supply of essential commodities in the coming days.