West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari inaugurates Dudhia bridge and launches Swachh Kavach kit

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari virtually inaugurated the rebuilt Dudhia bridge over the Balason river in Darjeeling district, restoring the vital road link between Siliguri and Mirik that had been severed after the previous bridge was washed away. The temporary Bailey bridge was constructed in just 20 days by the Indian Army’s Trishakti Corps, the Public Works Department and district officials, with a permanent structure being built alongside it. Adhikari thanked the agencies, saying, “On behalf of the state government, I salute all those involved in the construction of this bridge in such a short time.” He also announced the formation of a 50‑member civil defence rescue team and the procurement of advanced disaster‑management equipment for the hills.

On the same day in Kolkata, Adhikari, alongside State Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Minister Agnimitra Paul, launched the Swachh Kavach personal protection kit for conservancy workers at the Uttirno facility. The kit is intended to enhance safety for city sanitation staff during their duties.

Both events underscore the state government's focus on improving infrastructure resilience and worker safety in West Bengal.