MLA Inspects Progress of Bridge Restoration Work
Lahaul-Spiti MLA Anuradha Rana on Friday inspected the restoration work of a road bridge over Jahalma nullah, which was recently damaged by a massive landslide. The inspection covered the Sansari-Killar-Thirot-Tandi road in Lahaul and Spiti district, focusing on ensuring safe movement for residents in the flood-affected area.
Border Roads Organisation (BRO) Officer Commanding Paras Kochar, senior officials of the Public Works Department (PWD), and other concerned departments accompanied the MLA during the inspection.
Alternative Road Damaged by Flash Floods
The original bridge over Jahalma nullah was destroyed in a major landslide, prompting the BRO to construct an alternative road. However, that alternative route was also damaged by flash floods a few days ago, causing significant inconvenience to commuters. On Friday, the BRO temporarily restored connectivity on the alternative road, allowing light vehicles to pass.
The MLA visited the site where emergency movement is now being facilitated, as well as locations identified for a permanent bridge and a temporary footbridge. She directed BRO and PWD officials to expedite work and ensure both structures are completed within the stipulated timeframe to restore normal connectivity as soon as possible.
Completion Timelines Announced
BRO Officer Commanding Paras Kochar informed the MLA that the permanent bridge would be completed within the next 15 days. PWD officials added that the temporary footbridge would be ready within 10 days, providing a safe crossing for local residents until the permanent bridge is finished.
Anuradha Rana also interacted with local residents and assured them that every possible effort was being made to minimize inconvenience and restore normalcy. She emphasized that farmers' interests would be fully protected and that no damage to standing crops would be allowed during the construction work.
Officials and Representatives Present
Among those present on the occasion were Executive Engineer PWD Ashwani Guleria, Executive Engineer Jal Shakti Department Ajay Gupta, Zila Parishad members Chhejang Dolma and Poonam, gram panchayat pradhans Krishna and Prem Lal, Block Development Committee members Dinesh Kumar and Tashi Kesang, Youth Congress vice-president Sahil Katotch, Veer Singh, Sher Singh, and several other local representatives and residents.
