Pulwama, Shopian residents demand construction of new bridge at Gudoora
Pulwama: The residents of Pulwama and Shopian districts have demanded immediate construction of a new bridge at Gudoora on National Highway, local’s said Monday.
They said that the existing bridge is in dilapidated condition and the narrow width of the bridge often results in traffic congestion and inconvenience to commuters.
They said the current bridge is decades old and too narrow to allow smooth two-way traffic, causing frequent traffic jams.
This, the locals said, is particularly problematic for patients being ferried to hospitals, students commuting to schools and colleges, and office-goers.
“The bridge is so narrow that only one vehicle can pass at a time. If two vehicles come from opposite directions, there is chaos,” said Irfan Ahmad, a local resident. “We have witnessed ambulances getting stuck, school buses delayed, and people stranded for hours.”
The bridge, located on a vital stretch that connects Pulwama and Shopian to Srinagar and other parts of the valley, sees heavy vehicular movement throughout the day.
“It has become a daily struggle to cross this bridge. The government must take immediate steps to construct a new, wider bridge here,” said Sabreena Jan, a college student from Shopian.
Residents said they have repeatedly approached concerned authorities with their grievances but to no avail. They now urge the administration to prioritize the construction of a new bridge at the site.
“National Highway 44 is crucial for south Kashmir’s connectivity. A new bridge at Gudoora is not a luxury but a necessity,” said Bashir Ahmad, another local from Pulwama.
The locals have appealed to the district administration and the government to intervene and address the long-pending demand without further delay.
