Guwahati: A 300-metre iron bridge over the Kemi River in Assam’s Dhemaji district was washed away by floodwaters on Sunday, severing road connectivity between the Kemi-Purana Jelom area and Jonai Sadar.
According to local residents, the bridge connecting Kemi and Oyan collapsed after the river swelled rapidly following heavy inflows from neighbouring Arunachal Pradesh.
A resident said the river’s water level began rising sharply around 11 am and intensified within minutes. By about 11.30 am, the overflowing river had swept away the bridge.
Residents alleged that they had raised concerns during the construction of the bridge, arguing that an iron structure would not withstand the Kemi River’s strong monsoon currents. They claimed they had instead sought the construction of a permanent concrete bridge.
The collapse has disrupted daily life in the area, with local residents expressing concern over access to education. According to locals, students from Kemi depend on the bridge to reach the only school serving the area. With examinations approaching and water levels expected to remain high, they fear students may struggle to attend classes.
The loss of the bridge has also affected agricultural activities during the peak farming season, as farmers who cross the river to access their fields are expected to face logistical difficulties until connectivity is restored.