Yogesh
Jammu, Aug 29: In a remarkable display of engineering prowess and operational efficiency, the Engineers of the Tiger Division, Indian Army, successfully constructed a 110-feet Bailey bridge over the Tawi River in less than 12 hours, restoring vital connectivity in the region.
“The completion of Tawi Bridge No. 4 in less than 12 hours is a testament to the dedication, skill, and resilience of our engineers,” Major General Mukesh Bhanwala, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Tiger Division said while addressing the media persons here.
He highlighted the significance of this achievement, saying the bridge, designated as Tawi Bridge No. 4, was completed under extremely challenging conditions, including washed-out approaches and limited workspace, showcasing the indomitable spirit and technical expertise of the Indian Army.
The construction of the Bailey bridge was necessitated after the original structure was rendered impassable due to recent flooding and adverse weather conditions.
The modular and portable design of the Bailey bridge, a proven engineering solution since World War II, enabled the Tiger Division Engineers to swiftly assemble the structure without the need for heavy equipment or cranes, despite the constrained environment.
The bridge, with a load-bearing capacity sufficient for vehicular traffic, has re-established seamless movement for both military and civilian transport, ensuring the uninterrupted flow of essential supplies and relief materials.
“Despite washed-out approaches and limited workspace, our teams worked tirelessly through the night to ensure connectivity was restored at the earliest,” Major Bhanwala said. “This bridge is not just a structure; it is a lifeline for the people of the region and a symbol of the Indian Army’s commitment to serving the nation in times of need.”
He further elaborated on the operational challenges, saying, “The adverse conditions tested our resolve, but our Engineers, with their unparalleled training and teamwork, overcame every obstacle. This operation underscores the Indian Army’s capability to execute critical infrastructure projects under pressure, ensuring mobility and support for both our forces and the civilian population.”
The swift construction of the Bailey bridge aligns with the Indian Army’s ethos of rapid response and self-reliance, contributing to the restoration of normalcy in the affected areas, the GOC of the Tiger Division said.
