The go-getting Dhubri-Phulbari Bridge, currently under construction across the mighty Brahmaputra River, is set to become India’s longest river bridge and a major economic catalyst for the Northeast region.
Widening 19.3 kilometers, the four-lane extradosed cable-stayed bridge will link Dhubri in Assam with Phulbari in Meghalaya. Once working, the bridge is expected to transform cross-border logistics and expressively boost regional trade.
In an exclusive conversation with Business North East (BNE), Rajeev Gupta, Chairman of the North East India Regional Committee of the Indo-Japan Business Council (IJBC), highlighted the transformative power of the project.
"The bridge is going to change the complete dimension of trade and commerce from the region. It will integrate the Northeast more deeply with national and international markets," Gupta said.
A local business owner of Dhubri said "Once the bridge opens, our produce and goods will reach markets in Meghalaya and beyond much faster. It will be a game-changer for small traders."
Strategic Importance and Project Scope
The bridge is being developed under Phase 3 of the Northeast Road Network Connectivity Project with financial support from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and execution by the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL).
Larsen & Toubro (L&T) has secured the construction contract worth Rs.3,166 crore, with the entire project pegged at Rs. 4,997 crore—making it one of the most important infrastructure investments in the region.
The bridge comprises a 12.625 km main navigation span, 3.5 km approach viaducts on the Dhubri side, and 2.2 km on the Phulbari side, along with critical connecting infrastructure.
Connectivity and Travel Transformation
Now, the road journey between Dhubri and Phulbari spans about 205 kilometres, often requiring detours via the Naranarayan Setu or use of ferry services—both of which are time-consuming. The new bridge will tear the distance to just 19 kilometers, dipping travel time to below 40 minutes.
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Economic and Social Ripple Effects
The bridge is predictable to have far-reaching economic and social welfares. It will enable smoother, faster drive of goods and services between Assam and Meghalaya, catalysing growth in sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism.
Improved access to healthcare, education, and markets is predictable to uplift groups in the Garo Hills and other distant regions. The bridge also holds potential for better regional collaboration with Bangladesh and Bhutan, aligning with India’s Act East Policy.
"It’s not just about physical connectivity—this is about economic inclusion and regional integration," Gupta added.
Technical Feats and Sustainability
Building a bridge of this magnitude over the Brahmaputra, known for its high velocity and instable flow patterns, presents important engineering tests. The structure joins features like earthquake-resistant design, solar-powered lighting, and other sustainable technologies.
Engineers are using liberal construction techniques to safeguard the bridge withstands environmental pressures while bring into line with green infrastructure standards.
Project Timeline and Progress
As of Q1 2025, about 44 percent of the construction has been completed. The project is on track for completion by 2028, with both the Assam and Meghalaya governments spreading full support to safeguard timely delivery.
Upon conclusion, the Dhubri-Phulbari Bridge will serve as a landmark in India's infrastructure journey—bringing wealth, flexibility, and deeper national adding to Northeast India.
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