Srinagar, July 11: Despite increasing focus on heritage sites across the Kashmir Valley, the historic “Daand Kadal” (Bull’s Bridge) in the Langate area of north Kashmir’s Kupwara district has been left neglected for the past two years after being damaged by flash floods.
This negligence has impacted the daily lives of residents, who are now forced to take longer routes to reach their destinations.
According to locals, no tender has been issued for the bridge’s restoration, despite promises from authorities that it would be repaired soon. The lack of attention to this vital infrastructure has caused frustration and inconvenience among the thousands of residents.
The Roads and Buildings (R&B) department officials have acknowledged the issue but cited a lack of funds as the primary reason for the delay in restoration. They assured that efforts are being made to develop plans for the bridge’s repair, but no concrete steps have been taken so far.
The “Daand Kadal” is not just a critical passage for the locals but also holds historical significance. Its defunct state has become a disheartening sight for the community and visitors alike.
Some schools have been organising trips for students to visit the bridge to educate them about its heritage sites in the area. However, the current condition of the bridge undermines these educational efforts and presents a stark contrast between its historical importance and its present neglect.
The bridge’s deterioration reflects a broader issue of inadequate preservation of heritage sites in the area. While authorities have been focusing on other heritage sites, the lack of attention to this vital bridge highlights the inconsistencies in the preservation efforts across the valley.
The residents of Langate await the day when the Bridge is restored to its former glory, serving as both a functional infrastructure and a symbol of their rich heritage.
