Darbagh residents await start of bridge construction over Nallah Tongri
Decade after floods damaged vital link, villagers in Watchi area say delays risk lives and livelihoods
Shopian: Despite official sanction, construction of the much-awaited bridge over Nallah Tongri in Darbagh village of Zainapora subdivision in south Kashmir’s Shopian district has yet to begin, leaving residents frustrated and demanding immediate execution of the project.
The proposed bridge is intended to replace a dilapidated structure that was severely damaged during the devastating 2014 Jammu and Kashmir floods and has since remained in a precarious condition.
For nearly a decade, the crossing has continued to serve as a critical yet unsafe link between Darbagh and several adjoining villages.
Residents said the existing bridge has tilted over time and is no longer fit for vehicular movement. “The structure is unstable and poses a constant threat. Even small vehicles cross it with difficulty, while heavy vehicles are completely restricted,” said Altaf Ahmad, a local.
He added that the situation worsens during rains when the water level in the stream rises. “Every spell of heavy rain brings fear. We live with the constant risk of the bridge collapsing, which could cut us off entirely,” he said.
Locals said that the lack of a safe crossing has severely impacted emergency services and daily life. “In medical emergencies, every minute counts, but the unsafe bridge often causes delays. Transporting essentials has also become a challenge,” said another resident, Nisar Ahmad.
The residents said they have repeatedly approached authorities and raised the issue at multiple platforms, including public grievance forums and election rallies, but without tangible results. “We have been hearing assurances for years, but nothing has moved on the ground,” they said.
They further stated that the delay has hampered socio-economic activities in the area. “A proper bridge will improve access to schools, healthcare facilities, and markets. It is not just about connectivity but about safety and basic rights,” a local said. Urging immediate intervention, the villagers appealed to CM Omar Abdullah, local MLA Showkat Hussain Ganaie, and district authorities to ensure that the sanctioned project is executed without further delay.
“The bridge has been sanctioned, and the work is expected to commence soon,” said an official.
