Jammu: A bridge connecting the Mandi tehsil with the national highway was partially washed away by heavy rains in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district, forcing authorities to suspend traffic, officials said on Sunday.
Repair work on the damaged portion of Drungali Nala Bridge has started and all efforts are being made to complete the repairs before the upcoming Chhadi Yatra festival, said Deputy Commissioner Tahir Mustafa Malik.
Malik, who visited the spot along with GREF officer-in-charge MK Sharma to take stock of the situation, said that the Chhadi Yatra is a major religious event and the restoration of the bridge is crucial to facilitate movement of devotees.
The ADC has asked the public not to cross the bridge until repairs are completed.
“As long as the bridge is being repaired, everyone should only drive over the adjacent Bandichechian Bridge,” he said.
Heavy rains occurred overnight in several parts of Jammu region, causing water levels to rise.
According to the Meteorological Department, 77 mm of rainfall was recorded in Kathua district, 71 mm in Jammu and 59.6 mm in Samba in the last 24 hours (up to 5.30 pm).
Katra, the base camp for pilgrims visiting the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, received 51 mm of rainfall during the same period, the MET ministry said.
The weather forecast for most parts of Jammu and Kashmir predicts wet weather until August 18, with brief periods of heavy showers and the possibility of flash floods or landslides in vulnerable areas.
They said that there would be more rainfall in Jammu region from August 14.
Published August 11, 2024, 4:34 p.m. IS
