Srinagar, June 22, KNT: Locals and regular commuters have expressed concern over the deteriorating condition of the Mehjoor Nagar Foot Bridge in Srinagar, alleging that nearly half of the installed lights on the structure are either defunct, damaged or missing, making it difficult for pedestrians to use the bridge safely during evening and night hours.
The pedestrian bridge, constructed across the Jhelum River flood channel at an estimated cost of around Rs 4.95 crore, was built to improve connectivity between localities on either side of the channel. However, users say inadequate maintenance and repeated acts of vandalism have significantly affected its utility.
According to commuters, nearly 10 of the approximately 20 decorative lights installed along the bridge are no longer functional. Several fixtures are reportedly loose or damaged, while bulbs have been removed from a number of lamp posts.
Locals told the news agency Kashmir News Trust that the situation becomes particularly challenging after sunset, with women and elderly pedestrians facing difficulties while crossing the bridge due to poor illumination.
Read: Mehjoor Nagar Bridge Theft in Srinagar: Finials Stolen, Electrical Units Damaged
“There are damaged lights at multiple spots and some bulbs are completely missing. People use this bridge every day, but nobody seems to be looking after it,” said a local commuter.
Several residents alleged that despite visible deterioration, no meaningful effort has been made to repair the lighting system or identify those responsible for damaging public property.
The concerns come months after reports surfaced regarding the theft and vandalism of decorative fixtures and other components installed on the bridge. Locals claim that no visible deterrent action followed those incidents, encouraging further damage to the public infrastructure.
Many commuters said they are unsure which department is responsible for addressing such grievances and alleged that repeated complaints often fail to reach the appropriate authorities.
They urged the Srinagar Municipal Corporation and other concerned agencies to restore the damaged lighting system, inspect the condition of all fixtures and initiate action against those involved in vandalizing or stealing public property.
They said identifying and prosecuting those responsible would help prevent further damage and ensure that public assets created at considerable public expense remain protected. [KNT]
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