The Chief Minister recently inaugurated the construction of the Majuli-Jorhat bridge along with the connecting highway at a function held at Manika Pathar, Garmur, in Majuli.

About the Jorhat–Majuli Bridge

• Project: Two-lane major bridge with approaches over the Brahmaputra
• Location: Between Nimati Ghat (Jorhat) and Kamalabari (Majuli)
• National Highway: NH-715K (declared on 17 November 2020)
• Total Length: 6.8 kilometres
• Estimated Cost: ₹925.47 crore (with revised cost for remaining work at ₹657.66 crore)
• Implementing Ministry: Ministry of Road Transport and Highways
• Implementing Agency: National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited

Key technical features

• Design: Two-lane bridge with approach roads and protective embankments
• Spans:
  • 40 spans of 125 metres each (about 5 kilometres)
• Vertical clearance:
  
  • 10 metres above high flood level, as per Inland Waterways Authority of India norms
    
• Purpose:
  
  • Ensures uninterrupted river navigation and water transport on the Brahmaputra
    

Strategic and developmental significance

• This will be the first permanent land connectivity between Majuli Island and mainland Assam.
  
• It will ensure all-weather access, reducing complete dependence on ferry services.
  
• The bridge will significantly improve access to:
  
  • Health services
    
  • Education facilities
    
  • Markets and employment opportunities
    
• It is expected to boost tourism, cultural exchange, and economic integration of Majuli.
  

Policy framework

• The project is part of the National Highway Infrastructure Development Programme.
  
• It aligns with the Bharatmala Pariyojana, which focuses on improving connectivity to remote, border, and strategic regions, especially in the Northeast.
  

About Majuli

• Majuli is often described as the heart of Assam’s river civilisation.
  
• It is a major centre of Neo-Vaishnavite culture, home to historic satras and unique ecological traditions.
  
• Permanent connectivity is crucial for protecting its cultural heritage and sustainable development.
  

Exam Hook – 

Q. Consider the following statements regarding the Jorhat–Majuli Bridge:

1. It will be the first permanent road bridge connecting Majuli Island with mainland Assam.
   
2. The bridge is part of the Bharatmala Pariyojana implemented by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
   
3. The project provides vertical clearance to facilitate inland water transport on the Brahmaputra.
   

Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Source