Mokokchung, February 14 (MExN): The 125-years old suspension bridge popularly known as the Clark’s Bridge built across Milak River at Molungyimsen was restored on Saturday last with Minister of Planning and Coordination TR Zeliang, cutting the ribbon and unveiling the restoration plague. The bridge had remained neglected for many years.
Speaking at the restoration ceremony on the bank of Milak River, TR Zeliang recalled and lauded the contribution of Rev. Dr E.W. Clark to the Naga people. ’Dr Clark’s wisdom for the Nagas was remarkable. His mission was not only for Christianity, but also for peace, education and uplifting of Nagas economy,’ he said. ‘It was through Dr Clark’s mission that Nagas of today learned the method of peace,’ he said.
Asserting that the Clarks Bridge is a heritage and could become a hot spot of tourist attraction, Zeliang urged the people to have a sense of belonging and ownership and maintain historical capital.
‘The bridge appears to look simple but if it is preserved properly our future generations can translate it significant into many dimensions; such heritage is our resource,’ the minister said. He also assured all possible help from the state government for further development of the site.
Initially, the bridge was constructed with bamboo and cane in 1884, but four years later it was replaced by steel wire imported from Chicago, US. It served as a means linked between the Naga Hills and Assam valley when traveling was very difficult as people had to cross formidable rivers Tsurang and Milak, also known as Jhanji. It is about to be 125 years now and although it is not in used by the people today, except to see, those days it was the only all-weather ‘road’ in the Naga Hills.
This small bridge also served as an important link in the travels of Rev. Dr Clark and the missionaries in fulfillment of their God-given task of bringing the Gospel to the Nagas, said Dr Sunep Imchen.
This road was declared as peace zone by the then British government, which allowed people to travel freely without fear and doubt. It is known by various names these days such as ‘Kings Bridge’ by the trans-Dikhu tribesmen, ‘Peace Bridge’ by the Ao and ‘Clark Bridge’ by Molungyimsem villagers. The Clarks called it ‘the Naga Hill Suspension Bridge.’ Dr Sunep Imchen christened it the ‘Gospel Bridge.’
People recalled the works of Rev Dr. E W Clarks. It was Dr Clarks along with the Dekhahaimong populace established Molungyimsen the first Christian village in the Naga Hills on 24th October 1876. It was through Dr Clarks’ initiative that the hunting was brought to an end, abolished slavery in the Ao country and also brought about changes in the disposing of dead bodies.
Molungyimsen villagers and several other organizers and individuals have extended gratitude to Minister TR Zeliang for providing necessary financial assistance for restoration the historic bridge. The people also thank Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio for showing concern and responding positively in time.
The DAN government is likely to accord more financial assistance for further infrastructural development in and around the bridge and for preserving the historic bridge. The bridge if properly preserved would become a hot spot for tourists.
