 Ashwani Sharma
Early Times Report
Udhampur, Sept 23: Life has come to a standstill for thousands of residents of Banti village and its adjoining 20 panchayats after the Dalwal Bridge (popularly known as Banti Bridge) collapsed during the heavy rains on August 25–26. One month has passed since the incident, but no alternative connectivity has been provided by the administration, leaving people isolated and struggling for daily survival.
The bridge, constructed just nine years ago to link nearly 20 panchayats with NH-44 and Udhampur town, was a lifeline for thousands, including students and patients. With its collapse, villagers are now forced to walk nearly 8 km on foot through Sarmoli before they can find transport to Udhampur.
The situation is particularly dire for school and college students, many of whom risk their lives daily by crossing the swelling Tawi river on foot to avoid missing classes. In several heartbreaking cases, parents have been seen carrying their children on their shoulders across the dangerous river currents to ensure they don’t lose access to education.
Residents fear that a major tragedy is imminent if immediate steps are not taken. “Every day, people are forced to put their lives at risk. If anyone falls sick or there’s a medical emergency, reaching Udhampur hospital in time becomes nearly impossible,” said a local villager.
The villagers have appealed to the District Administration, particularly DC Udhampur, to prioritize the reconstruction of the Dalwal Bridge on a war footing. They emphasize that restoring this crucial link is not just about convenience but about saving lives and securing the future of thousands of students.
Until then, the people of Banti and the surrounding panchayats remain cut off, waiting desperately for the road to safety and normalcy to be restored. |
