Residents of Kupwara villages rue delay in construction of bridge

Kupwara, Oct 31: Residents of Bangergund and adjacent villages in the Vilgam area of north Kashmir’s Kupwara district expressed strong resentment on Thursday against the authorities for failing to complete the bridge, causing immense hardships for the locals.

The residents stated that the bridge was approved long ago, but after the passage of thirteen years, it is still not complete, raising concerns among the locals. "The bridge was sanctioned a decade ago but has been left halfway due to reasons best known to the concerned authorities," said a local resident.

"Once completed, the bridge would provide a significant boost to the horticulture sector in the area and connect several villages," he added.

“With the completion of this bridge, the distance between several villages will be significantly shortened, helping commuters reach their respective destinations in the shortest possible time,” said another local.

The residents said that following repeated pleas to successive dispensations, the bridge was sanctioned, but after a decade, it remains incomplete, highlighting the callous approach of the officials.

The residents have gone from pillar to post seeking redressal of their genuine grievances but to no avail.

They are now seeking the immediate intervention of MLA Handwara Sajad Gani Lone to ensure the completion of the bridge and to end their hardships.