Café at the Border: Indian Army Transforms Unused Bailey Bridge in Arunachal into a Coffee Spot

In the quaint village of Zemithang, located in Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh, the Indian Army has transformed a decommissioned Bailey bridge into a café. The Border Brew Café has been constructed over the Ngyamjang Chu river as part of Operation Sadbhavna, completed in just 31 days. This bridge, which once served military purposes, now provides a welcoming space for people to stop, relax, and connect.

Situated near a sensitive border area, the site retains the original structure of the bridge, making it suitable for public use. The core framework remains intact, with added seating and enclosed sections enhancing accessibility for visitors.

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The café’s layout mirrors the bridge’s span, with seating arranged along it, allowing visitors to sit directly above the flowing river. A separate area along the riverbank expands the seating options, providing visitors with varied perspectives in the same picturesque setting. Both seating areas offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, framed by glass panels that display the mountains, valley, and sky.

The café is managed by women from the Monpa community, who oversee its daily operations. This model connects the café to the local populace, making it both a stop for visitors and a facility managed by the community.

Despite its exquisite landscape and proximity to monasteries, Zemithang has remained a hidden gem on travel routes.

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