J&K: Footbridge between Narsoo and Swena collapses mid-construction; officials blame rain, begin probe

NEW DELHI: An under-construction footbridge connecting Swena and Narsoo blocks in Udhampur district collapsed recently. Built at an estimated cost of Rs 1.58 crore, the bridge was meant to fulfill a reliable connectivity between the two blocks.

However, with construction still underway and the bridge in its launching stage, the structure gave way during recent rains, triggering an official probe and renewed appeals for accountability and urgent reconstruction. The collapse occurred between the villages of Dharmsthal and Narda, an area where geographical challenges like landslides and heavy rainfall are not uncommon. Officials and community leaders have weighed in, pointing to possible structural flaws, environmental triggers, and supervisory lapses. Narsoo village sarpanch Ashok Kumar Sharma acknowledged the importance of the project while attributing the collapse to natural causes rather than negligence. He said to news agency ANI, "Built to meet long-standing demand, it aims to provide transportation and access to schools, which people previously lacked... The incident was not due to negligence; instead, a storm with rain and strong winds caused rocks to slide, damaging the bridge.

People expected to get the bridge soon, but it will take another 5-6 months. A committee should be formed, and the bridge's design should be changed."

Subhash Chander, district development council of Narsoo, emphasized swift action and accountability, he added "It was a long-overdue demand. When work started, people were happy. The bridge connects two blocks, Narsoo and Sewna. After learning about what happened, we contacted the department, informed the local MLA, and Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh, who sent teams.

An inquiry should be conducted to determine if there may be a technical fault.

We appeal for it to be rebuilt soon. Whoever is found guilty, an action should be taken against them." Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC) Udhampur, Rajinder Singh, provided details about the project status and the potential causes behind the collapse: "A few days ago, the district administration became aware that someone informed DC ma'am about a footbridge between Dharmsthal and Narda that collapsed due to rain. The under-construction bridge, built at Rs 1.58 crore, had been under construction for 1.5 years.

The bridge was in the launching stage. According to regulations, its fastening may not have been done properly, which probably caused the collapse."(With agency inputs)