Umaisar Gull Ganie
Kulgam, Jan 16: The old Kawaki Bazar bridge in South Kashmir’s Kulgam district, dismantled four months ago, has seen no progress, leaving residents of over ten villages in hardship.
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Locals alleged that the concerned authorities have taken the work for granted, and the temporary footbridge has also been closed, further adding to the sufferings of people, especially the elderly.
According to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), the Kawaki Bazar bridge at Qaimoh area was dismantled on October 21st last year due to its narrow structure, which caused traffic congestion.
A temporary footbridge was erected to provide convenience to the people.
Locals told KNO that the bridge is crucial as it connects almost ten villages to the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway. Unfortunately, no work has been carried out on the bridge since its dismantling, they said.
Jahangir Ahmad, a local said, “When the administration doesn’t have any planning, why did they dismantle the bridge? The bridge needs to be completed quickly as it holds great importance.”
He said dismantling the bridge without any clear timeline for completion has left them stranded. “The suffering of the people, especially the elderly, could have been avoided if the authorities took their responsibilities seriously.”
Another local said the authorities seem to have forgotten that the bridge connects vital areas. “Their indifference is causing us daily hardships and a temporary footbridge was a solution, but now it is also closed now. How much longer will the administration ignore our pleas for basic infrastructure?”
He also pointed out, “It is harsh winter; if any emergency arises, what can we do? Even vehicles have to travel kilometers to reach here. Authorities should start work on it as soon as possible and the temporary footbridge needs to be reopened for commuters on a priority basis.”
“The administration and a local MLA, whom we voted for, seem to be in deep slumber. We urge higher authorities to look into the matter,” he added—(KNO)
