Srinagar, Mar 25: Construction of a key bridge over Nallah Sukhnag in Beerwah subdivision has been suspended due to delays in shifting a high-voltage transmission line, raising concerns about the project’s timely completion.
The bridge, sanctioned after the old Bailey bridge was damaged in the 2014 floods, is being constructed to provide a permanent and reliable crossing for local residents. The project is being executed under a NABARD scheme at an estimated cost of ₹8 crore and is scheduled for completion by March 2028.
However, work has come to a standstill after the construction agency completed two of the three planned pillars. The remaining work cannot proceed due to the presence of a 3300 kV transmission line running across the construction site.
Javid Ahmad, a resident of Beerwah, said the transmission line, supplying power from Beerwah Receiving Station to Arizal Receiving Station, has become a major obstacle. “The work began in November and two pillars have been completed. But the agency cannot proceed further unless the transmission line is shifted,” he said.
Ahmad warned that if the issue is not resolved by April 15, the project could face significant delays. “After April, the water level in Nallah Sukhnag rises due to irrigation requirements. This will make foundation work difficult and may halt construction until September,” he added.
Locals have expressed frustration over what they describe as a lack of coordination between the Power Development Department (PDD) and the Roads and Buildings (R&B) Department.
Nadia Jan, a student, questioned the delay in resolving the issue. “If the bridge is meant for public welfare, why is the transmission line not being relocated? This shows a lack of coordination between departments,” she said.
An official from the R&B Sub Division Beerwah confirmed that construction has been halted due to the transmission line.
“Two pillars have been completed, but work on the third cannot begin until the line is shifted. We have already written to the concerned authorities to take immediate action,” the official said.
He added that any further delay could worsen the situation. “If the transmission line is not shifted before mid-April, rising water levels will prevent foundation work, forcing the agency to suspend construction until conditions improve,” he said.
Residents have urged the authorities to act swiftly to resolve the issue and ensure that the bridge is completed within the stipulated time frame.
