Oct 2024 target set to complete world's tallest pier rail bridge
Source: Chronicle News Service

Noney, March 06 2024: The world's tallest pier railway bridge, being built across the Iring river between Khumji and Karuangmuan villages in Noney district, is expected to be completed by October 2024.Rising to a height of 141 metres, the bridge is part of the 111-km long Jiribam-Imphal railway line project to connect the capital of Manipur with the broad gauge network of the country.

The bridge is 8.5 metres wide and 703 metres long overall with the piles constructed using hydraulic rig.

In order to ensure efficient and continuous construction, a specifically designed 'slipform technique' is being used for the towering piers.

The project initiated in February 2005 and declared a national project began construction on August 21, 2013, and is targeted for completion by October 2024, if work continues without hindrance.

The construction activity is divided into two parts - sub-structure, which involves constructing the piers from ground level to the required height (90 per cent complete), and the super structure, comprising installation of superstructure composite girder (35-40 per cent complete) .

According to the latest status report, the construction work of the two abutments based on the hill slope has been completed.

All seven piers, including the two tallest piers (P3 and P4), which stand 141 metres tall, have been finished.

The erection of the superstructure is in progress, with 3 out of 7 spans completed.

However, the composite girder has not yet been fully erected.

Experts are currently using soil nailing with geo-mat to protect against landslides or mudslides from the hill slope.

The bridge is being constructed using standard methodology to protect from powerful earthquakes.

Two construction companies, BIPL and BBJ, currently are employing over 220 workers to work around the clock on the project.

Despite facing transportation and labour issues due to frequent bandhs/strikes as well as topographical challenges, the railways authority is making every effort to ensure that train services are available till Karuangmuan sub-station, Noney by the end of this year.

When construction is finished, this bridge will surpass the existing record of 139 metres held by the Mala-Rijeka Viaduct in Montenegro, Europe.

However, hindrances from the local and other factors are impeding the progress of this prestigious project.

The Railway has been in touch with the state authorities to resolve the issue.

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