Vital Chenab River Footbridge Declared Unsafe, Local Commute at Risk

A critical suspension footbridge over the Chenab River in Doda district, linking 14 villages to the Batote-Kishtwar highway, has been declared unsafe. Local residents, concerned about the disruption, demand urgent repairs as the bridge is crucial for daily travel and providing essential supplies to the community.

A suspension footbridge spanning the Chenab River and built around sixty years ago has been declared unsafe, raising alarm in Doda district, Jammu and Kashmir. This pivotal structure connects over 14 villages to the Batote-Kishtwar national highway.

The Public Works Department has restricted usage of the bridge to ensure public safety, banning goods-carrying mules and limiting crossing to two persons at a time. Local residents are urging authorities to expedite repair or reconstruction efforts, pointing out that more than 3,000 people rely on it daily, including school children.

The Deputy Commissioner of Doda, Harvinder Singh, emphasized that public safety is paramount. The administration is taking necessary measures to prioritize the bridge's restoration, while locals remain frustrated over the lack of substantial repair work despite significant financial allocations over the years.