Srinagar Bridge Construction Delayed for 10 Years; 6 People Drown in River Today

Six people tragically lost their lives in a boating accident when their boat capsized after crashing into an under-construction bridge pillar. Among the victims were 12-year-old twins Tanvir and Muzamil Ahmad, who were on their way to school with their mother. Heavy rain in the region had caused the river to swell, leading to the accident.

According to Srinagar District Magistrate Bilal Mohiudin Bhat, there were 15 people on the boat, with seven being minors. Twelve individuals were rescued, while six others lost their lives and six were hospitalized for treatment. The families of the victims expressed grief and pointed out that the bridge construction, which began in 2013, had been stalled due to 2014 floods and a lack of progress in the subsequent years.

Locals lamented that multiple bridges along the Jhelum river were still under construction, forcing people to continue using the risky boat route to cross the river, especially when water levels were high. The incomplete bridge, located near the city center of Srinagar, has been a source of frustration for the community. The neighbourhood was plunged into mourning as the families awaited news of the missing individuals.

The community united to bid a sorrowful farewell to the victims.