Sopore Bypass Bridge in North Kashmir that was inaugurated by late Chief Minister Mufti Muhammad Sayeed in August 2015 after a long wait of 23 years has developed cracks setting off panic among the locals. The bridge according to officials has developed cracks due to massive snowfall. Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Sopore Bashir Ahmed Bhat confirmed to CNS that the newly inaugurated bridge has developed cracks; however, he said that there is nothing to worry and panic. “I have been in touch with Border Roads Organization and has taken up the matter with them. The agency will repair the cracks,” Bhat said.The 216-metre Sopore Bypass Bridge had missed several deadlines since the start of its construction 23 years ago.
Reports said that hundreds of people have been flocking to the bridge to see the visible cracks. “Its completion took 23 long years. It is shocking that barely 2 years after it was thrown open, the bridge developed cracks. It has become clear now that sub-standard material has been used in its construction,” said a group of locals from Sopore town.The locals demanded that the bridge should be closed till all the cracks are repaired. “It can become the source of a major mishap. Action should be initiated against the concerned agency, responsible for its construction,” they said adding that to save themselves from the embarrassment, the authorities are unwilling to take the blame on their shoulders. Border Road Organization officials declined to comment on the issue. Despite repeated attempts Beacon Chief Engineer could not be contacted. (CNS)