Dibrugarh: Three centuries of Ahom heritage are under threat after floods damaged the historic Namdang Stone Bridge near Gaurisagar in Sivasagar district.Popularly known as “Namdang Silar Sako”, the bridge was built in 1703 during Ahom king Rudra Singha’s reign and carved from a single massive rock. Located on NH-37, it connects Guwahati with upper Assam and bears the weight of thousands of vehicles daily.The structure was submerged for nearly 12 days during the floods. As the water receded, erosion became visible at its base. Cracks have appeared, while creepers and tree roots have penetrated the base, further weakening it.The damage has raised concerns about commuter safety and the preservation of the 323-year-old monument.All Tai Ahom Students’ Union (ATASU) president Basanta Gogoi inspected the damaged sections on Friday and urged the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to immediately assess, conserve and restore the bridge.“The Namdang stone bridge is a symbol of the engineering brilliance of our Ahom ancestors and a proud part of our identity. Seeing it damaged like this is heartbreaking. The ASI must step in to assess the damage and undertake urgent conservation work before it is too late,” the ATASU president said during the visit.The damage comes months after the Sivasagar district administration announced plans to develop the site as a tourism destination, with a heritage park and a statue of Sati Radhika to celebrate its historical and cultural significance.Historians and heritage experts regard the bridge as an engineering marvel. It has remained in continuous use since 1703 and witnessed the 1825 battle between British and Burmese forces.Residents and heritage enthusiasts fear that without swift intervention, erosion during future floods could permanently endanger the landmark’s structural integrity.
Heritage Hangs in the Balance: As the water receded, erosion became visible at the bridge’s base
Heritage Hangs in the Balance: As the water receded, erosion became visible at the bridge’s base
Heritage Hangs in the Balance: As the water receded, erosion became visible at the bridge’s base
