Ganderbal, July 4: Residents of Rayil village in Gund, Ganderbal district, are grappling with daily challenges caused by a deteriorating wooden footbridge over Nallah Sindh. The bridge, which has been in a dilapidated state for several years, connects three villages in the area and poses a significant risk to hundreds of families.
Constructed over 15 years ago, the wooden bridge was intended to provide convenient access to essential facilities for villagers residing on the other side of Nallah Sindh, including Theekrey Pati, Kil Thoal, and half of Bota Kullan. However, due to the bridge’s current condition, locals are encountering severe difficulties, exacerbated by the overflow of water in the river.
Repeated appeals to the administration to replace the temporary wooden structure with a sturdy concrete footbridge have fallen on deaf ears. The lack of action has left the community frustrated and vulnerable to the hazards caused by the absence of a proper bridge over Nallah Sindh.
“We have been enduring immense hardships due to the unavailability of a proper bridge over Nallah Sindh,” shared one resident. “The previous footbridge provided tremendous relief to the local population. When it collapsed, the administration did rebuild a portion of it, but a long-lasting solution is urgently required.”
Assuring the villagers of their commitment, Sarpanch Rayil Balti Kullan, Sadiq Ali, said, “The recently reconstructed section of the bridge will serve as a temporary measure. However, we are determined to construct a strong and durable bridge to ensure the safety and convenience of our community members. My fellow panches and I are personally overseeing the matter.”
As the situation continues to worsen, the villagers of Rayil remain hopeful that the authorities will take immediate action to address their concerns and provide a permanent solution to their long-standing problem. Failure to act swiftly could further endanger the lives and well-being of the affected families, who deserve the basic infrastructure necessary for a safe and prosperous life.
