Guzhama Bridge Over Jhelum Still Unfinished After 13+ Years, Locals Condemn Delay

Ganderbal, Sept 5, 2025 — Despite construction beginning over 13 years ago, the much-anticipated 50-metre span bridge at Guzhama over the River Jhelum — intended to link Ganderbal and Bandipora — remains incomplete, deepening frustration in the region.

Construction Halted Midway

The bridge contract was awarded in 2011 to Jammu and Kashmir Projects Construction Corporation (JKPCC). Only 30% of the work was completed — primarily the approach abutments — before construction was abruptly halted due to unclear circumstances, sources say. Residents are now railing at what they see as a symbol of mismanagement and broken promises.

Financial Cost & Escalation

Nearly ₹9 crore has already been spent, but progress remains stagnant. An RTI response revealed that just 22% of work was completed; the right-side abutment is mostly done, but work on the left side hasn’t even started. With material costs having more than doubled since 2011, officials now need ₹44 crore in fresh approvals to resume construction.

Daily Hardships for Locals

The absence of the bridge forces residents — including school children — to risk crossing the river in fishing boats, especially perilous during floods. After a tragic boating accident in Srinagar last year, boat crossings at this point were banned, forcing thousands to take detours over five kilometres longer.

Calls for Accountability

Local activists say the bridge was intended to boost connectivity and economic activity. As it stands, it’s become a symbol of apathy. Though the Road & Buildings Department (R&B) has taken over the project, the revised estimate hasn't yet received final approval. Residents blame local and state authorities — even the Chief Minister himself — for inaction despite repeated appeals.

Source: Daily Excelsior (Read Original)

Labels: Guzhama Bridge, Jhelum River, Ganderbal, R&B Department, Infrastructure Delay

Tags: #GuzhamaBridge #Jhelum #Ganderbal #InfrastructureDelay #Kashmir

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