Samba, March 15: The third bridge over the Basantar River in Samba district, Jammu and Kashmir, has been fully completed and is now open for vehicle traffic. The construction of this bridge has been a long-standing demand, as its absence often led to road accidents and severe traffic jams in the Sidco Chowk area.
With the opening of the new bridge, significant improvements in traffic management are anticipated in the region. Local residents believe that the bridge will not only reduce accidents but also provide considerable relief to daily commuters. Previously, traffic jams in Sidco Chowk and surrounding areas could last for several hours, impacting both the public and commercial activities. The new bridge is expected to alleviate traffic pressure and facilitate smoother vehicle movement.
According to officials, several important projects have been completed on National Highway-44, focusing on safety and passenger convenience. Approximately ₹171.25 crores have been invested in these initiatives. The projects include improvements to accident-prone spots between Sidco Chowk and Gole Mela-Sangur, the construction of a Lower Vehicle Underpass (LVUP) along the service road in Samba, and the development of modern facilities along the roadside in Jhajjar Kotli, Qazigund, and Marhama.
These locations were previously identified as accident-prone areas and points of high traffic conflict on the highway. Officials state that these corrective measures have enhanced road infrastructure, made vehicle maneuvering safer, and improved traffic flow. This is expected to increase road safety and significantly relieve passengers from traffic congestion.
Local residents have expressed their happiness over the completion of this project and have thanked the government and relevant agencies. One resident mentioned in an interview that the construction of the third bridge has brought great relief to the people of Samba. The area had become a hotspot for accidents in recent months, with Sidco Chowk marked as two major accident-prone spots. They praised the National Highway Authority for taking this issue seriously.
They further emphasized that ensuring safety in people’s lives is a top priority today. Expressing gratitude to the National Highway Authority, the district administration, and Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, they stated that this bridge is a significant boon for Samba. With the bridge now fully operational, it is expected to greatly reduce congestion at Sidco Chowk.
Resident Vikas Dongra also expressed joy over the bridge’s construction, noting that there had been a long-standing demand for its establishment. He shared that traffic jams in the area previously lasted for hours, causing significant inconvenience. Additionally, road accidents occurred every other day. He believes that the opening of the bridge will reduce these issues, allowing for safer and more convenient travel for everyone.
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