After a decade of delay, Rahmoo bridge to finally reopen

PULWAMA — After nearly a decade of sluggish progress, the Rahmoo Pulwama bridge, swept away during the devastating 2014 floods, is slated to reopen its gates to the public. The bridge’s lengthy reconstruction timeline has been a cause for dissatisfaction among residents from Rahmoo, Tujan, Pakherpora, Charar-e-Sharief and surrounding areas, who heavily relied on its connection to Pulwama.

Initially anticipated to be completed within a shorter timeframe, the slow pace of work on the Rahmoo bridge has been a cause of distress for locals, especially considering its crucial role as the sole link between the aforementioned villages and Pulwama. Despite an arduous decade-long endeavour, the bridge remains only halfway complete as construction efforts persist.

According to insider reports, the projected timeline for the bridge’s full completion is estimated to stretch for another month. The deadline for its ultimate completion, originally set for February 2024, is expected to be met as the bridge gears up for its reopening in March 2024.

In response to the imminent reopening, reactions among neighbouring communities are mixed. The protracted delay has sparked frustration and inconvenience for locals who have been contending with prolonged travel and access issues due to the bridge’s closure. However, with the impending revival of the Rahmoo bridge, there is a palpable sense of relief and elation among residents of adjacent areas, heralding the prospect of restored connectivity.

Local authorities have emphasized the importance of this infrastructure as a critical lifeline for the region and have assured that the bridge’s reopening will alleviate the hardships faced by the communities reliant on this vital link.

As the final touches are put in place, anticipation looms high among residents eagerly awaiting the much-awaited reopening of the Rahmoo bridge, signalling a beacon of renewed connectivity and hope for the region.

It is important to mention here that the bridge on Romshi Nallah, which connects Pulwama with Budgam district via dozens of areas including Charar-e-Sharief and Pakherpora, is being constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 21.5 crore.