Udhampur, Jammu & Kashmir | August 2, 2025:
An under-construction footbridge meant to connect Narsoo and Sewna blocks in Udhampur district collapsed following heavy rain and strong winds, triggering public concern and a full-scale investigation by local authorities.
The bridge, built at a cost of *₹1.58 crore, had been under construction for nearly *1.5 years and was in its final launching stage when it collapsed near Dharmsthal and Narda villages.
Natural Forces or Negligence?
Local officials believe a sudden storm with sliding rocks and strong winds may have led to the structure’s failure. However, concerns remain over possible technical faults and supervision lapses.
“This footbridge was a long-standing demand of the villagers. It was meant to improve access to schools and transport,” said *Ashok Kumar Sharma, *Sarpanch of Narsoo village. “The collapse wasn’t due to negligence, but due to extreme weather. Still, we need to re-evaluate the bridge design.”
Public Representatives Demand Accountability
District Development Council member Subhash Chander echoed the community’s frustration.
“People were excited when the work began. Now they feel let down,” he stated. “We’ve reached out to the department, the MLA, and Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh. An inquiry must be held to uncover any technical flaws. Whoever is responsible should face action.”
Official Inquiry Launched by Administration
*Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC) Rajinder Singh, who is heading the inquiry, confirmed that *monitoring and supervision failures might have contributed to the collapse.
“As per preliminary findings, there were lapses in fastening during the bridge launch. This likely caused the structure to give way,” Singh said. “We’ve spoken with locals and the construction department. The final report will be submitted to the Deputy Commissioner with recommended corrective actions.”
Bridge Collapse Highlights Infrastructure Monitoring Gaps
While the collapse did not cause any casualties, it has exposed serious concerns about quality checks and regulatory compliance during construction in high-risk weather zones like Udhampur.
Locals now worry that it may take another 5-6 months for the bridge to be rebuilt. Meanwhile, the administration is under pressure to ensure transparent accountability and reliable reconstruction.
Key Highlights:
- Under-construction bridge collapses in Udhampur district, Jammu & Kashmir
- Bridge meant to connect Narsoo and Sewna blocks
- Storm and sliding rocks suspected as the cause
- *Project cost: ₹1.58 crore; *1.5 years under construction
- Local officials demand design reevaluation and accountability
- Inquiry underway, led by ADDC Rajinder Singh