Rickety Kralpora bridge turns daily crossing into risky ordeal

Kupwara, Dec 13: A makeshift wooden bridge over Nallah Hudd in the Kralpora area of Kupwara has emerged as a serious safety hazard for residents, who have been forced to use the fragile structure for years in the absence of a permanent concrete bridge.

Locals said the wooden bridge poses a constant threat, particularly to children, elderly persons and women, who feel unsafe while crossing it. Despite repeated appeals, authorities have failed to replace the temporary structure with a concrete bridge, prolonging the hardships of thousands of commuters.

The bridge serves as a vital link for several villages, including Rishgund, Dardsun, Gazeryal, Aloosa, the main market of Kralpora and the Kralpora bus stand, besides other adjoining areas. Residents said the lack of a permanent bridge has severely disrupted daily movement and economic activity.

According to locals, the makeshift bridge was constructed in 2014 after residents pooled their own resources. Over the years, its condition has significantly deteriorated, increasing the risk of accidents.

The residents said they have approached multiple authorities over the past several years seeking redress, but their pleas have gone unheard.

Kralpora Traders Federation President Mohammad Amin said the people have been suffering for nearly a decade, alleging that the authorities have shown little sensitivity towards the daily hardships faced by the residents. He urged the administration to address the long-pending demand without further delay.