File Photo: The connecting bridge between Duncan Basti, Dimapur and Bor Lengri, Assam which was sealed following the COVID-19 pandemic. Four bridges in Dimapur, over the ‘Balu’ stream, which were closed down on account of the COVID-19 threat, were opened on September 1. (Photo Courtesy: Vikato Zhimo)
Morung Express News
Dimapur | September 1
Four bridges in Dimapur, over the ‘Balu’ stream, which were closed down on account of the COVID-19 threat, were opened on September 1. The stream partly serves as the Assam-Nagaland border along the eastern and western parts of Dimapur district bordering Karbi Anglong. Small bridges along its course serve as important alternative routes for people to commute between Dimapur and neighbouring villages and settlements across the border.
Hundreds of households, including non-Nagas, who depend on Dimapur for work and daily needs, living barely meters across the stream, were acutely affected as a result of the ban on inter-state movement.
The shutting of the bridges had also met with strong protestations from Nagas living across. Another bout of protest from Nagas across the stream was witnessed on September 1 at the Duncan Basti-Boro Lengri bridge, also known as ‘Imli ghas bridge’ to locals.
According to residents that side, the erstwhile restriction on inter-state movement has been lifted, which technically implied all connecting routes should be opened from September 1, aside from the New Field and Dillai inter-state checkposts.
The barricade set up on the Nagaland side was removed in the afternoon today after Naga residents protested.
The Deputy Commissioner though maintained that the bridge was opened not because of the remonstration. The DC said, “It was not the case because the new SOP only came yesterday (August 31) evening,” while adding that there was a commotion across the bridge while the official order to open the bridge was being processed.
He added that it was sorted out after the order was put out.
Opens with conditions
The order issued by the DC today stated, “Relaxations are hereby granted at the following locations namely, (i) Bor Lengri Imli Ghas Junction (ii) LRC Bridge connecting Balijan (iii) Notun Basti Bridge connecting Tea Garden and (iv) Aoyimsen for allowing movement of people settled in the border areas for essential needs/availing medical facilities and the students to pursue their education/appearing for exams etc.” It came into effect from September 1.
The relaxation to open however came with certain conditions. It said, “A register is to be maintained at the gates for registering anyone passing through the Interstate Boundary. Thermal screening is to be done and use of masks and hand sanitizers will be mandatory. The persons entering/ leaving the said locations shall compulsorily follow all COVID-19 precautions such as social distancing etc at all times.”
