Srinagar, Jan 20: A major crack has developed in a vital bridge at Dalgate, a bustling tourist hub in Srinagar, raising serious safety concerns for residents and visitors alike.
The bridge, which serves as a main connection in the area, is now at risk of collapse if immediate repairs are not undertaken. The big crack on the bridge connecting old city with the boulevard was thrown open in June 2024 only.
Members of the Bazaar Committee, representing the local business community, have brought the matter to public attention, warning of the potential threat to human lives and property. Hilal Bhat, a member of the committee, said there is a dire need for intervention, stating, “The bridge is a lifeline for thousands of commuters and tourists. Ignoring this issue could lead to a catastrophic incident.”
Jan Muhammad, president of the Bazaar Committee Dalgate, while speaking to Rising Kashmir said: “This crack is not just a structural issue; it is a danger to the lives of everyone who uses the bridge daily. The authorities must act swiftly to ensure the safety of the public.” He said it was surprising to see the bridge developing major crack in less than a year of its opening.
“It was thrown open for public in June last year and in less than a year, it has developed a big crack,” the president Bazaar Committee said.
The bridge’s strategic location in Dalgate, a hub for both local commerce and tourism, adds to the gravity of the situation. Any disruption in its functioning could impact livelihoods, tourism activities and daily commutes in the area.
Despite repeated appeals by the committee, no visible steps have been taken by the administration so far to address the issue. The Bazaar Committee has called for immediate inspection and repair work to prevent an avoidable tragedy.
With Dalgate being one of Srinagar’s prime tourist attractions, the possible collapse of the bridge could lead to massive traffic snarls in the area. Locals and traders have urged the government to prioritize infrastructure safety and prevent a crisis from escalating further. The Bazaar Committee Dalgate urged the Smart City head, R&B Chief Engineer and the concerned MLA to look into the issue and ensure the repair work is done without any delay for the safety of commuters and tourists.
