Rehan Qayoom Mir
Srinagar, Apr 24 : In the aftermath of the tragic incident in Srinagar, boat crossing operations on the Jhelum River have been severely disrupted, which has impacted water transportation and connectivity in many areas.
According to information obtained by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), several key bridge projects, including the Dalgate Bridge, Noorbagh Bridge, Lasjan Bridge, Pantha Chowk Bridge, Sempora Bridge and Gandabal Bridge in Srinagar district, remain unfinished.
The recent boat tragedy in Gandbal, where six people lost their lives and three are still missing, has cast a shadow over the safety of water transportation in the area, prompting authorities to halt boat crossing operations until further notice.
“This development has significantly impacted the movement of people and goods, especially in regions heavily reliant on river transport,” said a local of Lasjan.
He said the incomplete bridges, spread across different parts of the valley, have hindered efforts to improve connectivity and infrastructure in the region, leaving behind a trail of disappointment and anger among the people.
Among the bridges awaiting completion, the Dalgate Bridge holds particular significance as a vital link in Srinagar’s transportation network. “Its unfinished state has not only inconvenienced commuters but also raised questions about the efficiency of infrastructure development initiatives in the valley,” said a local.
Similarly, the incomplete Noorbagh Bridge, Lasjin Bridge, Pampore Bridge, Smpora Srinagar Bridge, and Gandabal Bridge have become symbols of stalled progress and unfulfilled promises.
Locals, reliant on these bridges for daily travel and commerce, have been left grappling with prolonged inconvenience and uncertainty, with officials earlier confirming to KNO that the construction of the bridge including Dalgate and Noorbagh and Gandabal is ongoing and will be thrown open soon.
Moreover, officials from Road and Building (R&B), when contacted, assured swift action to address the challenges posed by both the disrupted boat crossing operations and the incomplete bridge projects.
Residents have called for the need for concrete measures and timely completion of infrastructure projects to ensure the well-being and prosperity of the region—(KNO)
