Bridging the Gap?: Vital Sopore bypass bridge risks collapse

Baramulla, Jul 23: The Sopore bypass bridge, a vital link connecting north Kashmir’s Kupwara district, is in a state of disrepair.

The bridge has developed large potholes, and the macadam has completely eroded, exposing the iron rods used in its construction and highlighting the urgent need for immediate repairs.

The eroded macadam and exposed iron bars pose a serious threat to the bridge’s structural integrity. Residents and commuters have raised concerns, urging the authorities to carry out repair and maintenance works without delay.

“The dilapidated bridge condition can result in a mishap at any time. Scores of school buses pass on this bridge every day, and parents are worried about the safety of their wards,” said Muhammad Arif, a resident of Sopore Bypass.

Locals criticised the administration for remaining silent despite the worsening condition of the bridge.

They said it was disheartening that after spending crores of rupees on such infrastructure, there was no concept of regular repair and maintenance.

“Just look at the condition of the bridge,” said Muhammad Ashraf, pointing to the large potholes. “This bridge is extremely vital as it connects the Kupwara district to Sopore, besides scores of other areas. Maintenance works have not been carried out for a long time, and it is deteriorating every day.”

The Sopore bypass bridge holds immense significance.

The area surrounding the bypass has become a commercial hub, with major godowns and shopping malls located in the vicinity.

Fruit-laden trucks heading to various parts of the country also pass through this route, and all goods-carrying trucks entering Sopore and Kupwara districts use this bridge.

However, its deteriorating condition poses a growing risk of mishaps.

“The bridge is a key route to Asia’s second-largest fruit mandi. With the fruit harvesting season approaching, its poor condition will become a major obstacle in smooth transportation,” said Aijaz Ahmad, a fruit dealer. “Moreover, the bypass area has become a warehouse hub for major companies. Repair work must be initiated immediately.”

Earlier, the Sopore bypass bridge suffered damage due to the absence of a proper maintenance mechanism.

It was after the locals here staged protests that the repair work on the bridge was carried out.

However, since then, there has been no initiative for the maintenance of the bridge, and as a result, the bridge again suffered damage.

Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Sopore, Shabir Ahmad Raina, said that the responsibility for the bridge’s maintenance lies with the Border Roads Organisation (BRO).

“We have taken up the matter with the concerned Officer Commanding (OC) of the BRO and are hopeful that repair work will begin soon,” he said.