Concrete block on Azad Gunj bridge sidewalk raises safety concerns in Baramulla town

Baramulla, Nov 28: The residents of Baramulla town have expressed concern over a concrete block on the sidewalk of the Azad Gunj Bridge.

The structure, which occupies a significant portion of the pedestrian pathway, has become a source of frustration and worry for locals who fear it poses a serious threat to one's life.

Fayaz Ahmad, a resident of the Azad Gunj area, while highlighting the potential danger posed by the block, said, “If a pedestrian accidentally collides with this block, they could suffer severe injuries. The narrow space left for walking creates an additional risk for someone falling off the bridge into the river below.”

The Azad Gunj Bridge serves as a vital link for pedestrians and vehicles alike, connecting various parts of Baramulla town. Besides the bridge is an important road connectivity between Rafiabad and Kupwara district of north Kashmir.

On an average thousands of people use the sidewalk of the bridge which is meant to provide a safe passage for the large number of people who cross the bridge daily. However, the concrete block has disrupted this purpose, forcing pedestrians to either squeeze past the obstruction or step onto the middle of the bridge which is meant for vehicular movement.

Another local, Gulzar Ahmad, while expressing similar concern said, “Blocking a portion of the bridge meant for pedestrians is not only inconvenient but also dangerous. If someone trips over this block, the consequences could be disastrous. It’s especially concerning for children and elderly people who use the bridge regularly.”

For the residents of Baramulla town , the purpose of the block remains unclear. Lack of any explanatory signage or protective measures has left many frustrated who questioned the accountability of the authorities responsible.

Locals are urging the administration to take immediate action to address the issue. “This bridge is used by thousands of people every day, including schoolchildren and elderly people. The authorities must either remove the block or find a way to ensure the safety of pedestrians,” said a concerned resident.

Meanwhile, when contacted, the Assistant Engineer R&B Baramulla, Asif Khaliq, said that the department has not placed this concrete block on their own, but it has emerged through thermal expansion and will be fixed soon.

“The block has emerged through a natural phenomenon, ‘thermal expansion’ during which the concrete portion of two plates takes such a shape. We will fix it within a few days,” said AE R&B Baramulla.