DC Ramban Inspects Pearnote Bridge, Karol–Maitra–Gool Road Restoration Works; Directs Rapid Repairs

Ramban, Sept 6: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Ramban conducted an on-site inspection of the restoration work at the damaged Pearnote Bridge and the ongoing reconstruction of the Karol–Maitra–Gool road today. The DC reviewed the pace of repair operations, assessed safety arrangements for workers and commuters, and directed concerned departments to expedite restoration so that normal traffic and essential supplies can be restored at the earliest.

Assessment of Damage and Work Progress

The Pearnote Bridge—an important local crossing used by residents and goods vehicles—suffered structural damage during recent floods and heavy rains. During the visit, the DC inspected the temporary support structures that have been erected and the progress of rubble clearance and foundation strengthening. Engineers briefed the DC on the phased plan: first ensure emergency movement via a temporary footway and single-lane bypass, then complete permanent strengthening and resurfacing works.

At the Karol–Maitra–Gool road corridor, which connects several remote habitations with the main highway, landslip and washout-prone stretches were targeted for immediate intervention. Earthmoving equipment, gabion filling, and slope-protection measures were visible at multiple locations. Officials said that priority sections prone to recurring slides were being stabilized using hume pipes, retaining walls and improved drainage systems to prevent future erosion.

DC’s Directives: Speed, Safety, Accountability

The DC emphasised a three-point directive to the executing agencies: accelerate work without compromising on technical quality, ensure safety of labourers and motorists, and maintain transparent progress reporting. He asked the Executive Engineer and the District Disaster Management team to provide a daily progress tracker and to assist in quick procurement of construction material that is in short supply.

“The people are facing severe hardships due to disrupted connectivity,” the DC said during the inspection. “We must restore essential links quickly, but with solid engineering so these roads and bridges withstand future rains.”

Community and Administrative Coordination

Relief teams and local panchayat representatives accompanied the DC. Community leaders reiterated the need for clear alternative routes for ambulances, school transport and supply vehicles until permanent repairs are complete. The administration assured that temporary arrangements — such as scheduled marine/raft services or escorted transit where feasible — will be expanded to reduce the burden on affected residents.

Social welfare teams are also coordinating distribution of essential supplies — food, drinking water, medicines and temporary shelter — to families living near damaged sections. Health and emergency services have been advised to remain on high alert during night-time movements and in heavy rainfall forecasts.

Technical Measures Being Implemented

Slope stabilization: Stone pitching, terracing, and vegetation where possible.
Drainage improvement: Construction of additional culverts and improved side drains to channel surface water away from the road prism.
Bridge strengthening: Temporary decking to allow limited vehicle passage while foundation repair work is executed.
Erosion control: Gabions and retaining walls at erosion-prone bends and cut-slopes.

Timeline & Budgetary Support

Officials informed the DC that emergency repairs for critical stretches are slated to be completed within 7–14 days depending on weather and material availability, while permanent reconstruction work may span several weeks. The DC also conveyed that funds under state emergency allocations and the District Disaster Response Fund have been sanctioned for priority tasks, and additional central assistance will be sought if required.

Voices from the Field

Locals welcomed the administrative attention. A shopkeeper from Karol commented: “All our livelihoods depend on this road. When it gets cut off, supplies and customers vanish. We are relieved to see machines and workers here.” A school transport driver requested that progress updates be communicated to communities so they can plan alternate arrangements for students.

Long-term Focus

While urgent repairs remain the immediate focus, the DC highlighted the need for long-term resilience planning — improved slope management, regular maintenance budgets, and investment in early-warning systems for landslides and floods. He urged line departments to prepare a comprehensive vulnerability map for the district and implement prioritized mitigation measures.

Source: Based on reporting by Daily Excelsior (Read original)

Labels: Pearnote Bridge,Karol–Maitra–Gool Road,Ramban,Restoration Works,Flood Damage Relief,J&K,News

Tags: #Ramban #RoadRestoration #BridgeRepair #DisasterRelief #Infrastructure

Disclaimer: This article is a rewritten summary based on reporting by Daily Excelsior. Jammu News Portal does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of external content.