Commuters in Ludhiana are risking their safety by using an unfinished bridge over the Buddha Nullah near Chand Cinema, even as critical works like carpeting and lighting remain pending. The bridge, constructed by the Municipal Corporation's Building & Roads (B&R) Department at a cost of Rs 2.75 crore, was originally scheduled for completion by May 31, ahead of the rainy season. However, the deadline has been overshot by a month, and officials now estimate that the remaining work will take another 15 days.
Missing Safety Measures and Premature Use
Despite the incomplete state, no barricades or 'work in progress' signs have been placed, prompting motorists to start using the bridge. A local shopkeeper, Payar Singh, highlighted the dangers: 'Since there are no lights installed, it is dangerous to use the same, especially during night hours.' The bridge lacks essential finishing touches, including carpeting, lighting installation, and other last-minute tasks.
Official Responses and Commuter Benefits
MLA (North) Madan Lal Bagga stated that a few works are pending and would take another 15 days to finish. He added that once inaugurated, the bridge will provide direct service lane connectivity to vehicles heading towards the city, eliminating the need to take the congested GT Road. 'Now, people going towards the city will not be required to take the GT Road. They will be given direct service lane connectivity through the bridge. There was a missing link, which will be covered now,' he said.
Commuters like Rajesh are eagerly awaiting the bridge's completion, as it promises significant time savings. 'Currently, I have to take the GT Road, which is always crowded. With the new bridge, I will save at least 30 minutes every day. I once used it but the works are yet to be completed. I am waiting for the same to commute through the bridge,' he said.
Impact on Traffic Congestion
The bridge is expected to substantially reduce traffic pressure on the GT Road, a major thoroughfare in Ludhiana, and improve connectivity for hundreds of daily commuters. The project aims to ease traffic snarls by providing a direct route for vehicles entering the city, thereby shortening travel times and reducing congestion. However, until the bridge is officially inaugurated, the premature use poses a serious safety hazard, especially during night hours when the lack of lighting makes the structure perilous for motorists and pedestrians alike.
