Qazigund residents demand completion of bridge

Srinagar, Jan 05: Residents of Qazigund on Friday appealed the authorities to complete the construction of Shah Mohalla bridge.
The construction work on the bridge, as per the residents, was started about four months ago.
The residents said that so far only two pillars have been erected.
“The work has been suspended for the last many days. We wonder why,” a resident said.
They said around 4,000 villagers in Kurigam, Bangi Mohalla, Nagrad, Barwin Chak and adjoining villages have been suffering due to non-availability of the bridge.
“We brought the matter into the notice of the concerned authorities several times, but despite assurances, the work has not resumed,” said Bilal Ahmad Khan, a resident.
The bridge was damaged badly by the September 2014 floods, and its construction was taken up due to efforts from the residents.
“It was after almost two and a half years that the work on the bridge was taken in hand. The bridge is of great importance to us, as it reduces travel time to Qazigund,” Ahmad said.
“The other route is quite lengthy, taking us half an hour to reach Qazigund. In case of emergency, the bridge can be of great use.”
Executive Engineer, R&B, Qazigund, Showkat Ahmad, said that 60 % of the work on the bridge completed.
“It needs only pillars as it is a bailey bridge. In this type, iron items are assembled,” he said.
“I have taken up the matter with the chief engineer. Certain things need to be procured. We are procuring them shortly. The bridge would be thrown open soon.”