Excelsior Correspondent
BHADERWAH, Sept 16: As the recent flash floods damaged several bridges connecting grasslands of high altitude Jaie valley, hundreds of Gujjars (traditional milkmen) are forced to step-into the waters of rivers and rivulets to cross them and supply the milk to their customers.
Over 350 tribal families reside along with their cattle in the 7,850 meter high meadow, 35 km from Bhaderwah town.
They sell milk and milk products but are presently facing immense hardships after the heavy rainfall on August 26 triggered flash floods in the streams and swept away all the four bridges, leaving them with no other option but to cross the streams twice a day to reach the market with milk.
“There is no bridge left behind in the 20 km long stretch after the heavy rainfall last month and we have no choice but to carry milk to cross the river to reach the market,” Abdul Kareen Deedar, a Gujjar man from Jaie Ghati said.
He said they cross the fast flowing river in groups by holding hands.
Mohd Hussain Chechi, the community head, requested the government to ensure early reconstruction of the washed away bridges.
Acknowledging the hardships faced by the nomadic families, Bhaderwah Divisional Forest Officer, Devinder Kumar said they have submitted a report to the Forest Department and district administration simultaneously for the reconstruction of the damaged bridges.
“As soon as we get the nod, the foot bridges will be constructed on war footing,” he said.
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