Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Akshay Labroo, on Friday conducted a site inspection of the fencing and allied upgradation works along both sides of Budshah Bridge, aimed at enhancing pedestrian safety, strengthening preventive measures to address negligent falls, suicide incidents and improving the overall aesthetic appearance of the bridge over River Jhelum.
During the inspection, the Deputy Commissioner reviewed the major components of the upgradation works, which include installation of new fencing on both sides of the bridge, strengthened protection railing system, lighting provisions.
While speaking on the occasion, the DC said that public safety remains a top priority of the District Administration and said that fencing of bridges is being undertaken as a preventive safety measure in view of concerns over suicide incidents from bridges, besides addressing public demand for enhanced safety measures. He added that the initiative is expected to enhance the appearance of Budshah Bridge, an important urban landmark in Srinagar, while ensuring a safer and more durable facility for the public.
The DC said that the upgradation works were executed to strike a balance between improved public safety, structural durability and aesthetic enhancement, ensuring that the fencing complements the bridge's surroundings without compromising the scenic charm of the river.
The DC further stated that the District Administration Srinagar has already undertaken 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. These measures are aimed at creating a safer environment for pedestrians and commuters through the installation of appropriate safety safeguards and strengthening preventive infrastructure. He also stated that fencing work along Noor Jehan bridge at Qamarwari is also being taken up and will be completed soon.
During the visit, the DC was informed that the major components of the work include installation of structural steel posts finished with stainless steel sheets to provide a durable and aesthetically pleasing fencing system, along with stainless steel railings at different levels to ensure proper edge protection and improved safety for pedestrians.
The project also includes provision and installation of high-tensile, low-relaxation, seven-wire prestressing steel strands as per the approved structural arrangement, to support the railing and fencing system. A lighting system/illumination along the railings and fencing on both sides of the bridge is also part of the project aimed at improving visibility during night hours while enhancing the overall visual appeal of the bridge.
During the visit, the Deputy Commissioner was accompanied by Additional Deputy Commissioner, Mir Imtiyaz Ul Aziz, Chief Planning Officer Fayaz Ahmad Dar, IAS Probationer, Sai Kiran, Superintending Engineer R&B, Tatheer Manzoor, Executive Engineer R&B, Khalid Mehmood, Executive Engineer KPDCL, Tasaduq Nabi, Tehsildar South, Sajad Rasool Shah and other concerned.
