Srinagar, April 17: A newly built pedestrian footbridge in Mehjoor Nagar has been targeted by miscreants, with several of its metal fittings reportedly stolen and parts of its electrical system tampered with, raising serious safety and maintenance concerns.
The bridge, constructed at an estimated cost of ₹4.95 crore by Lakes and Rivers Waterways Development (LRWD) under Srinagar Municipal Corporation, has suffered visible damage. Decorative metal spheres fixed on the railings have gone missing, leaving multiple sections exposed and damaged.
According to locals, dozens of these metal pieces were allegedly removed overnight, suggesting a planned act rather than random vandalism.
Apart from theft, concerns have intensified over public safety after an electrical unit installed near the bridge was found open and unsecured. A nearby electric pole also shows signs of interference, with loosened bolts and fittings, indicating possible tampering.
Residents expressed anger over the incident, calling it a major lapse in protecting public assets. They questioned the absence of surveillance systems like CCTV cameras, especially for a project of such high cost.
Locals have urged authorities to take immediate action, strengthen security, and ensure proper monitoring to prevent further damage. They also appealed to scrap dealers to report any suspicious sale of such materials to the police.
The incident has once again highlighted issues of infrastructure protection and civic responsibility, with fears that more components of the bridge could be targeted if timely measures are not implemented. (KNT)
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