Shillong, May 15: The District Administration of South West Garo Hills has imposed a ban on heavy vehicle movement over Bridge No. 15/3 at Betasing on the Garobadha-Dalu Road after structural damage was detected on the bridge approach.

The order, issued by District Magistrate Kum. Anendya Raajsshre, IAS, under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, was prompted by a report from the Executive Engineer, PWD (Roads), Ampati Division, which confirmed serious deterioration on May 14. Officials warned that continued passage of loaded trucks, buses, tankers, dumpers, and other heavy vehicles could further weaken the structure and potentially cause collapse, endangering lives and property.

With immediate effect, all heavy vehicles have been barred from crossing the bridge until repair and restoration works are completed. To ensure connectivity, the administration has directed diverted vehicles to use the alternate route via Betasing–Ishaguri PMGSY Road, proceed to Mirjumla through the Garobadha–Mankachar Road, and continue to Ampati via the Ampati–Mankachar Road.

The Superintendent of Police, District Transport Officer, and Executive Engineer, PWD (Roads), have been tasked with strict enforcement of the order, including installation of barricades and signages at key junctions. Authorities cautioned that violations would attract legal action under relevant provisions of law. The order has come into force immediately and is being widely publicised across the district.