Siliguri–Mirik Route Reopens After 24 Days as Temporary Dudhia Bridge Becomes Operational
Siliguri, October 29, 2025:
After nearly 20 days of closure due to the collapse of the Dudhia Bridge, traffic on the Siliguri–Mirik route has finally resumed. Following Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s assurance of swift action, a temporary bridge was constructed in record time, restoring connectivity between the two key hill destinations.
Light vehicles had started plying on the route from October 27, and today, the North Bengal State Transport Corporation (NBSTC) officially resumed its services after 24 days. To facilitate passenger convenience, NBSTC will operate three buses daily, making a total of six trips along the Siliguri–Mirik route.
The temporary bridge, spanning 468 meters, includes a 72-meter hume pipe causeway with a width of 8 meters. Construction was completed in just 16 days using 132 hume pipes, each measuring 1200 mm in diameter.
Officials, including the Divisional Manager and local representatives, visited the site today to oversee the resumption of services and interact with drivers, conductors, and passengers—all of whom expressed deep gratitude toward Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for keeping her promise.
The old bridge, built in 1965, had weakened over time, prompting the state government to launch a new ₹54 crore bridge project, which is already underway.
Citizens hailed the Chief Minister for her prompt response and effective leadership in ensuring quick restoration of this vital lifeline connecting the plains to the hills.
