MASROOR AHMAD
SRINAGAR: A clear example of the slow pace of development is that a bridge that promises to stop traffic congestion from north Kashmir to Srinagar city centre has not been completed even after more than a decade.
Noor Jehan Bridge is spread over 127 meters at Qamarwari Srinagar and connects Noorbagh and other side of the River Jhelum areas, which has been under construction since 2011. Despite several review meetings and commitments, this important infrastructure project is still awaiting completion. The “New Noor Jahan Bridge” is being constructed at a cost of Rs 10 crore and the allotment cost of the approach roads is Rs 398 lakhs.
Originally, the Noorbagh-Qamarwari Bridge project was supposed to be completed in just four years but its executing agency Roads and Buildings (R&B) has faced a series of setbacks that have resulted in lot of delays.
The ongoing construction has been unable to keep pace with the mounting traffic volume in the area, rendering daily commutes a daunting task for local residents.
“Children, who once heard about the imminent completion of the bridge are now adults discussing its unfinished state with their own children,” said a commuter.
Since the project’s inception, eight Chief Engineers of the Roads and Buildings Department, responsible for overseeing its construction, have retired, yet the bridge remains incomplete.
The Noor Jehan Bridge has been subject to numerous review meetings, several promised deadlines, and subsequent missed deadlines, creating frustration among the populace eagerly awaiting its completion.
Residents of Qamarwari and other adjacent areas expressed concern, saying, “Our area is congested, and work on the project is progressing at a snail’s pace. This is a project initiated in the heart of the city, and we expect the authorities to complete it on time.”
Officials of the R&B Department acknowledged the delays and attributed them to a variety of factors. They explained, “The project faced several hurdles, including the need to dismantle certain structures and provide compensation to affected locals. “
The story of the Noor Jehan Bridge serves as a stark reminder of the growing needs of the urban areas and the need for timely and effective infrastructure development to meet the expectations of their residents.
Meanwhile, during an inspection of the construction work on the bridge in July 2023, the then Deputy Commissioner had asked concerned officers to expedite the work and finish the remaining works within the shortest possible time. He had also stressed for speed up the progress of work to ensure the completion within the stipulated time. But this time not only another deadlines has been missed but the construction work on the bridge has come to a complete halt.
