The bridge over Ravi at Madhavpur is the only life line between the two northern States of Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir. This bridge, owing to incessant vehicular traffic has developed holes and cracks that hinder smooth passage of vehicles over it. Buses carrying passengers and trucks carrying loads, while passing over the bridge meet with bumps and jerk so much so that some passengers have been even hurt badly. Bus drivers have brought the matter to the notice of transport officers but nobody seems to be interested in taking up the issue at proper levels for repairing the bridge. The impression one gathers from the dilapidated and shabby look of the bridge, which is so vital to both the States, is that there is a tussle between the two Governments as to who would bear the cost of repair. We wonder that two Governments, knowing that the bridge is an asset to both are not able to find a compromise solution so that passengers and commuters are not made to risk their lives day in and day out. It is just possible that some day a major accident might happen owing to unserviceable conditions of the bridge and many precious lives would be lost. Before that happens we appeal to both the administrations of J&K and Punjab to discuss the issue and forge an amicable solution of funding and repairing the bridge. One crore of pilgrims to Mata Vaishno Devi cross this bridge annually and what impression of this ugly and offensive look of the bridge will create in them? It is a matter of shame.
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