Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Akshay Labroo today conducted an onsite review of the proposed fencing along the sides of Budshah Bridge and Noor Jehan Bridge (Cement Kadal) to review measures aimed at enhancing public safety along the bridges.
The DC assessed the planned infrastructure upgradation works to ensure improved safety for pedestrians and commuters using the bridges. During the visit, the Deputy Commissioner was accompanied by Additional Deputy Commissioner, Mir Imtiyaz Ul Aziz, IAS Probationer, Alfred Thomas, Chief Planning Officer, Fayaz Ahmad Dar, Superintending Engineer R&B, Tatheer Manzoor, Executive Engineer R&B, Khalid Mehmood, Executive Engineer R&B, Arif Hazari, Tehsildar South, Sajad Rasool Shah and other concerned.
While reviewing the plan of fencing of the bridges, the DC was informed that the Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) have been formulated for fencing the sides of both these bridges. He was briefed on the status of the works, project timelines and measures being undertaken to ensure public safety.
Emphasizing quality execution, durability and timely completion, the DC directed the concerned executing agency to ensure that the fencing not only strengthens safety measures but also maintains the aesthetics, surrounding visibility and heritage value of the structures.
The DC further instructed the executing agencies to incorporate all necessary safety measures and complete the works within the stipulated timelines while minimizing inconvenience to commuters. Speaking on the occasion, the DC underscored that public safety remains a top priority of the administration and said that the proposed fencing of bridges is being undertaken as a preventive safety measure in view of rising concerns over suicide incidents from bridges, as well as in response to public demand.
He added that the District Administration Srinagar has already taken several similar measures, particularly at vulnerable bridges over the river Jhelum including New Zaina Kadal, Aali Kadal, Old Zaina Kadal, Nawakadal and Safakadal in the Shahr-e-Khaas areas of the District, aimed at creating a safer environment for pedestrians and commuters by ensuring the installation of necessary safety safeguards.