Residents rue ‘faulty’ design of under-construction bridge at Khudwani

Srinagar, Jan 7: The residents of  Khudwani Qaimoh, Kulgam, have said that they are facing severe hardships due to the ongoing construction of the Sakharsham Bridge over the Gree stream.

“This bridge serves as a vital link connecting multiple villages to the district headquarters of Kulgam and Anantnag. Unfortunately, the dismantling of the existing bridge for construction of a new one has left the residents in an extremely dire situation,” local residents said.

“A temporary pedestrian bridge was constructed, but has proven to be highly inconvenient and unsafe. Positioned just 4 feet above the water surface, it is not only perilously low but also poorly designed. The approach to the bridge consists of steep steps, forcing people to bend their backs to navigate the structure. This is especially challenging for the elderly, women carrying goods, schoolchildren, and patients who need to access medical facilities,” the residents added.

According to the locals’ situation worsened in this harsh winter, as the steps leading to the bridge have become frozen and dangerously slippery. “This makes it exceedingly difficult for commuters, especially the elderly, children, and those with urgent medical needs, to safely cross the bridge.”

“The bridge’s current design raises serious concerns about basic engineering standards. It is baffling why such a vital structure was not built at the same height as the dismantled bridge to ensure safety and usability.”

Residents said that they are deeply frustrated and aghast at this oversight, which has left them at the “mercy of unfavorable conditions.”

“Despite the Deputy Commissioner of Kulgam personally visiting the site on two occasions and issuing clear instructions to make the pedestrian bridge more convenient, no significant action has been taken. This lack of response has only compounded the suffering of the people.”

“A safer, more accessible pedestrian bridge at a suitable height is urgently needed to alleviate the suffering of the people and ensure their safety,” locals said.