In a major relief for commuters and residents, the 4th Tawi Bridge constructed by the Indian Army has been officially opened for traffic, significantly improving connectivity in the region.Army has also come to the rescue of Chenab Valley residents by constructing a Bailey bridge in Doda for the purpose of restoring damaged connectivity in floods.
As for the Jammu bridge, built across the Tawi River, it comes at a critical time when continuous rainfall and rising water levels have caused disruption in road networks and posed challenges for movement in several areas. The newly opened structure is expected to ease congestion on existing bridges and provide a reliable alternative route for thousands of daily commuters.Local residents and officials have welcomed the Army’s efforts, calling the project a lifeline that will not only facilitate smoother travel but also help in the movement of essential supplies, emergency vehicles, and relief material in times of crisis.
The Tawi River has been flowing above the alert level in recent days, raising fears of flooding and possible damage to infrastructure. In such a scenario, the 4th Tawi Bridge is expected to play a crucial role in maintaining connectivity and ensuring uninterrupted passage for both civilian and administrative needs.Authorities said the bridge will also reduce travel time within the city and strengthen disaster response capacity in flood-prone areas.
In much relief to the residents in the Chenab Valley Army has come the fore as always by constructing a Bailey Bridge near Jangalwar in Thathri area of Doda district, restoring partial connectivity on the vital Jammu–Kishtwar National Highway (NH-244).
Recently, nearly 100 meters of the highway was completely washed away following heavy rainfall and flash floods that lashed the Chenab Valley, cutting off large parts of Doda, Kishtwar, and adjoining areas. The landslides and erosion left thousands of commuters stranded and disrupted the movement of essential supplies.
Responding swiftly, Army engineers launched a challenging operation in adverse weather conditions and treacherous terrain. Within days, they successfully constructed a Bailey Bridge, a temporary yet sturdy structure designed to withstand heavy traffic and ensure that essential services, relief materials, and stranded passengers could move again.Local residents and civil administration have welcomed the Army’s timely intervention, calling it a lifeline for the region.
The restored connectivity is expected to bring immediate relief to people of Doda, Kishtwar, and other remote areas, who had been facing acute hardship due to the highway closure.Officials have confirmed that while the Bailey Bridge will serve as a temporary solution, long-term restoration of the highway is underway. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and other agencies are engaged in repairing the damaged stretches and strengthening vulnerable patches to prevent future disruptions.
The Chenab Valley, prone to frequent landslides and flash floods, has witnessed repeated damage to its road infrastructure in recent weeks. The Army’s effort has once again underlined its critical role in providing emergency assistance and ensuring mobility in disaster-hit areas.