Pulwama residents suffer as Wahibugh bridge continues to remain closed
Bridge suffered damage during recent floods
Pulwama: The recent floods in Jammu and Kashmir have left behind widespread destruction, damaging vital infrastructure across several districts.
According to official figures, a total of 11 bridge structures across the Pulwama have suffered damage in the floods, out of which 10 have been partially affected.
In south Kashmir’s Pulwama district, the agricultural and horticultural sectors have been particularly hit. Along with crop losses, floods washed away several temporary bridges and damaged important link roads, cutting off vital connections between villages and making it difficult for farmers to transport their produce.
One such is bridge is vital Wahibugh bridge that has been closed for traffic due to which locals have been facing problems.
Ghulam Rasool a local resident said, “The floods recently damaged this bridge, and since then the authorities have closed it for traffic. Farmers are the worst sufferers because they cannot carry their apples and vegetables to markets on time. The damage could have been avoided if illegal mining in the local streams was stopped. The Department of Geology and Mining has failed to take any effective action.”
The Roads and Buildings (R&B) Department has also confirmed the severity of the damage and said that decision of closing this bridge has been taken after proper checking of the bridge and it is unsafe.
Executive Engineer Javid Ahmad said, “The bridge has suffered significant structural damage, which is why we were forced to close it for traffic. Our inspection teams have recommended that the bridge remain closed until proper repairs are carried out.
The estimated cost of restoration is around Rs crore and after restoration only it will be safe for public movement.
The bridge holds great importance for the local population as it connects several villages and serves as a vital link between south and central Kashmir.
During the devastating floods of 2014, this was the only bridge that kept Pulwama connected to central parts of the Valley
Farmers and residents have appealed to the administration for immediate restoration of connectivity, warning that delays could further compound their economic losses during the ongoing apple harvesting season.
