Baramulla, Jun 08: Sub Divisional Magistrate of Uri on Thursday issued an order to ban the movement of heavy duty vehicles on Nand Singh Bridge.
An official told Rising Kashmir that the order aims to prevent further harm to the bridge, ensure the safety of commuters, and maintain smooth traffic flow on the Srinagar-Baramulla-Uri highway.
The decision to impose the order came after the Officer Commanding of 53 RCC (GREF), Project Beacon, highlighted the recurring damage caused by overloaded vehicles traversing the bridge.
In response to the request from the Officer Commanding, the Sub Divisional Magistrate Uri Jatin Kishore has taken action to address the issue promptly.
The official order reads that no trucks, tippers, or heavy/overloaded vehicles will be allowed to ply on the Nand Singh Bridge until further notice.
“Instead, these vehicles are directed to utilize the alternate route via the Parallel Road. Moreover, the bridge will be closed for all traffic from 10 pm to 4 am daily, excluding emergencies and essential services such as Ambulance and Fire Tenders,” it further reads.
Officials said that to enforce the order effectively, sufficient police personnel will be deployed round the clock on both ends of the Nand Singh Bridge.
“Additionally, Project Beacon will provide adequate personnel to collaborate closely with the police in ensuring compliance with the order. The authorities will work in tandem to prevent any violations and to repair and reinforce the bridge promptly.”
“Exceptions to the traffic regulation order include vehicles belonging to the Army, other security forces, and emergency services.”
However, these exempted vehicles must ensure they adhere to the load-bearing capacity of the Nand Singh Bridge, reported as 24R by the Officer Commanding of Project Beacon.
Officials said that the order will remain in force until repairs are completed, and periodic reviews will be conducted to assess the progress made.
In the meantime, the Officer Commanding of Project Beacon is required to submit an Action Taken Report to the Sub Divisional Magistrate by June 12, 2023, outlining the steps taken to repair and strengthen the bridge.
To ensure widespread awareness, the order has been disseminated through various channels, including social media, Panchayati Raj Institutions, and public notice boards at government offices and both ends of the Nand Singh Bridge.
“Individuals who wish to contest the order may submit a written response to the Sub Divisional Magistrate,” the order reads.
Earlier this morning, the NS Bridge in Uri sustained serious damage for the second time in a week, leading disruption in traffic.
