Kolkata, 20 May (H.S.) : Expressing concern over persistent traffic congestion and delays in the inauguration of the newly-constructed second Farakka Bridge over the Ganga, the Malda Merchants' Chamber of Commerce and Industry has urged the Central government to expedite its operationalisation.

Chamber president Ujjal Saha has written to Nitin Gadkari seeking immediate intervention to open the bridge for public use. A copy of the letter has also been sent to Suvendu Adhikari.

In the letter, Saha stated that although the bridge has not yet been formally opened due to what he described as “unavoidable reasons”, the newly-formed state government has adopted a positive approach towards strengthening road infrastructure to support trade, commerce and industrial growth.

He pointed out that at present only emergency services, including ambulances and police vehicles, are being permitted to use the bridge, while regular vehicular movement continues to face severe congestion along the Farakka corridor.

According to the Chamber, prolonged traffic snarls on both sides of the corridor have adversely affected public services and caused considerable inconvenience to commuters, transport operators and commercial establishments dependent on the route.

Saha urged the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways to direct the concerned authorities to complete the remaining work at the earliest and ensure all necessary safety and security measures are put in place before the bridge is opened to the general public.

The Chamber maintained that operationalisation of the second Farakka Bridge would substantially improve regional connectivity, facilitate smoother movement of goods and vehicles, and boost commercial activities across North Bengal and adjoining regions.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh