Vehicular movement restored on Kathua Bridge after 36 hours of suspension

STATE TIMES NEWS

KATHUA: Traffic movement on the Jammu-Pathankot National Highway through Kathua has been restored after being suspended for nearly 36 hours, following damage concerns to one of the key bridges caused by continuous rainfall and rising water levels.
Police and administration had stopped all movement on the stretch on Saturday after cracks and erosion were reported around the bridge base. Engineers from the Public Works Department and other technical agencies were immediately deployed to carry out a thorough structural inspection. After detailed road and bridge safety checks, the engineers gave clearance late on Monday evening, paving the way for the resumption of vehicular traffic.
“Only after a proper inspection and safety assurance was the bridge reopened. Every precaution has been taken to ensure that vehicles can pass through without risk,” officials confirmed.
During the suspension period, the district police and traffic authorities created alternative travel routes to minimize inconvenience to commuters. Posters and announcements were shared across the region, guiding travelers through diversion points and ensuring smooth traffic management despite the highway closure.
The temporary disruption had led to traffic congestion on adjoining roads, but with the reopening of the bridge, authorities expect travel between Jammu, Kathua, and Pathankot to normalize.