 The only way across the river was over the Ashuganj Bridge, which very soon became a fortress where a Pakistani division had consolidated itself.The strategic importance of breaking down resistance at Ashuganj soon became apparent to Lt Gen Sagat Singh, leading the IV Corps, who realised that his troops could, with a push, threaten Dhaka.Once a significant force had been built up, there was no recognisable enemy force between the helidropped force and Dhaka.