Meghalaya halts Assam bridge construction over border dispute
The Meghalaya administration suspended work on a Rs 3.42-crore concrete bridge being built by the Assam government at the state border.
The Meghalaya administration halted the construction of a Rs 3.42-crore concrete bridge over the Ukati river at Umsur on Thursday, according to The Sentinel.
The bridge is being built by the Assam government in the Palasbari co-district area with financial assistance from the World Bank.
Palasbari Co-District Commissioner Bhaskarjyoti Kalita visited the site on Friday with officials from the Public Works Department, Forest Department, and police. Meghalaya administration officials were also present at the site for discussions.
No resolution was reached during the meeting, as Meghalaya officials reportedly maintained that construction should remain suspended until the two state governments reach a decision.
Commissioner Kalita told reporters that the administration did not visit the site to engage in a dispute. He said the Meghalaya Sub-Divisional Officer had contacted him and a letter had been received regarding the matter.
Kalita stated that while the area was described as a zone of difference regarding the boundary issue, an examination showed the location falls within the Assam area. A PWD official said work would resume after a decision is reached by both sides.