Indian Army Restores Key Siliguri-Mirik Link with Temporary Footbridge at Dudhia

KOLKATA: The Indian Army has constructed a 34-metre footbridge over the Balason River in West Bengal’s Darjeeling district, restoring connectivity between Siliguri and Mirik after a temporary bridge was damaged by heavy rain, according to a defence statement issued on Wednesday.

The footbridge was built at Dudhia following a request from the district administration to restore a crucial transport link that connects Siliguri with Mirik and provides access to key border crossing points, including Pashupati Phatak.

The temporary hume pipe bridge over the swollen Balason river was washed away on June 19 after days of incessant rainfall, disrupting movement in the region. The damaged structure had been installed as an interim arrangement after the collapse of the Dudhia iron bridge in October 2025.

The newly constructed footbridge is expected to facilitate the movement of pedestrians and help restore access for local residents while authorities work on a permanent solution.