A tragic incident unfolded in Srinagar, Kashmir, as six lives were lost when a boat capsized in the swollen Jhelum River. The accident occurred due to the boat crashing into a pillar of an under-construction bridge, causing the rope it relied on for crossing to snap. Among the victims were 12-year-old twins, Tanvir and Muzamil Ahmad, who were on their way to school with their mother when the tragedy struck.
The delay in completing the bridge, which should have been ready in a few years but remains unfinished after a decade, has been highlighted as a contributing factor to the unfortunate event. The twins and their mother, along with others on the boat, faced the consequences of relying on the precarious crossing method due to the incomplete infrastructure.
Local authorities have been grappling with the aftermath, with District Magistrate Bilal Mohiudin Bhat confirming the loss of six lives and several others injured and hospitalized. The incident has reignited frustrations among residents who have long awaited the completion of critical infrastructure projects like the bridge, which would have provided safer and more reliable transportation options.
The construction of the bridge faced setbacks, including interruptions due to floods in 2014 and changes in government administration, leading to a stagnant progress over the past decade. Residents in the area lament the lack of progress despite repeated promises and the dire need for safe alternatives, especially during times of heightened river levels due to heavy rains.
The tragic event has not only brought grief to the affected families but has also highlighted the urgent need for infrastructure development and completion to ensure the safety and well-being of the local community. As rescuers continue their efforts to locate any missing individuals, the community mourns the loss of lives and demands swift action to prevent such incidents in the future.
Sources By Agencies
