Temporary Bridge at Thajwas Repaired by Locals After Official Inaction
G N Raina
Ganderbal, May 23, KNT: People associated with the tourism sector repaired a temporary wooden bridge at the famous Thajwas area of the health resort Sonamarg after concerns mounted over its deteriorating condition and alleged official inaction.
The bridge, constructed by the Wildlife Department nearly two years ago over the Thajwas stream, had been facilitating movement of tourists and local residents visiting the area for recreation.
According to stakeholders in the tourism sector, the wooden structure had become completely dilapidated over time, creating difficulties and safety concerns for those crossing the stream.
They said tourists and local residents had repeatedly demanded repairs to prevent any mishap, particularly as water flow in the stream had increased.
“An accident could have occured there at any time due to the condition of the bridge and rising water levels,” people associated with the tourism sector said.
Range Officer Wildlife Mukhtar Ahmad had earlier stated that he informed the department last year about the need to repair the bridge, but no response had been received so far.
With no restoration work initiated, tourism stakeholders said they undertook repairs on their own so that visitors and local inhabitants would not face inconvenience during the tourist season.
When contacted by Kashmir News Trust regarding the matter, Block Officer Wildlife Farooq Ahmad did not respond directly and instead handed the phone to another person. [KNT]
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