Indian Army restores vital Siliguri and Mirik connectivity in North Bengal

SILIGURI, June 24, 2026 — The Indian Army Trishakti Corps has restored essential pedestrian connectivity between Siliguri and Mirik after heavy rains washed away a key crossing over the Balason River at Dudhia.

Responding immediately to a request from the civil administration, army personnel under the Eastern Command constructed an initial 34-meter footbridge to reopen access for local citizens and tourists heading toward Pashupati Phatak.

Following the successful completion of the footbridge, engineering teams are now preparing to launch a heavier Bailey Bridge at the site. This subsequent structure will allow the restoration of vehicular traffic and help transport tourists who were stranded by the sudden infrastructure collapse.

Local authorities noted that the rapid military response plays a critical role in stabilizing transportation and supporting livelihoods throughout the North Bengal region.