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Udhampur Students Risk Lives Crossing River Daily After Bridge Collapse

A crucial bridge over the Tawi River in Udhampur's Bant village collapsed in August 2025, severing connectivity for over 50,000 people. Schoolchildren now undertake a perilous daily crossing of the Toldi Nallah, navigating slippery rocks and strong currents to reach school. Authorities state the bridge requires a complete redesign and extension, escalating the cost from Rs 4.5 to 5.4 Crores. While a revised proposal awaits approval, residents continue their hazardous commute, pleading for immediate action to restore the vital link.

Key Points: Udhampur Bridge Collapse Forces Students to Cross Dangerous River

  • Bridge washed away in Aug 2025
  • Students cross dangerous river on foot
  • Redesign needed, cost up to Rs 5.4 Cr
  • Locals urge fast-track reconstruction
3 min read

J-K: Students risk lives crossing river after bridge collapse in Udhampur; residents seek urgent reconstruction

Thousands of students in Udhampur risk lives daily crossing Toldi Nallah after a bridge collapse. Officials cite redesign delays as locals demand urgent reconstruction.

"the pursuit of an education is no longer just a challenge of academics, but a daily gamble with their lives - Residents"

Udhampur, April 19

The education and safety of thousands of students in Udhampur district remain at risk after a key motorable bridge over the Tawi River was washed away in August 2025, forcing children from more than 10 panchayats to cross the dangerous Toldi Nallah on foot to reach their schools.

The collapsed bridge, located in the Bant village area of Samroli, had served as a crucial connectivity link for residents of nearly 20 villages. Since its destruction due to heavy rainfall and flash floods, schoolchildren--especially young girls and primary students--have been navigating slippery rocks and strong currents daily, turning their routine commute into a life-threatening challenge. For these children, the pursuit of an education is no longer just a challenge of academics, but a daily gamble with their lives.

Residents said the loss of the bridge has effectively isolated more than 50,000 people from the Udhampur district headquarters, severely affecting access to education, healthcare services, and daily livelihood activities. Locals and students have appealed to both the Government of India and the Jammu and Kashmir Government and the District administration to take immediate steps for the reconstruction of the bridge.

The Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) of Udhampur, Prem Singh Chib, has provided a technical update on the restoration of the 80-meter Toldi-Bant motorable bridge, which was destroyed by flash floods in late August 2025. Following a detailed inspection by the Design, Inspection, and Quality Control (DIQC) team in September 2025, it was determined that a simple replacement would be insufficient. The team observed that the river's waterway had shifted and the High Flood Level (HFL) had been breached, necessitating a complete redesign of the structure to ensure future resilience.

Consequently, the project has seen a significant increase in both scale and cost. Originally approved under the UT Capex 2025-26 for permanent bridge restoration at an estimated Rs 4.50 Crores, the new specifications require the span to be extended from 80 meters to 98 meters. This revision has raised the total project cost to Rs 5.4 Crores.

ADC Chib confirmed that the revised proposal has been submitted to higher authorities for formal approval. Once the updated budget and design are cleared, the administration will immediately float tenders to begin the construction phase, restoring the vital link for the thousands of residents currently cut off.

Despite these developments, villagers and students continue to cross the Toldi Nallah daily under hazardous conditions, urging authorities to fast-track the process and provide immediate relief to prevent any untoward incidents.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
While I understand the need for a proper redesign, can't they arrange a temporary footbridge or a boat service in the meantime? 50,000 people are cut off! This is a basic infrastructure failure. The administration must provide immediate interim solutions while the permanent bridge is built.
A
Aditya G
It's good that they are planning a more resilient structure. We've seen too many bridges washed away in floods across the country. Building it right is important. But the process needs to be fast-tracked. Every day of delay is a risk to a child's life. Jai Hind.
S
Sarah B
This is a serious issue. The article mentions young girls having to navigate this. Their safety and access to education is paramount. I hope the local administration and the UT government coordinate effectively to get this done. The cost increase seems justified if it means a safer, longer-lasting bridge.
M
Manish T
Where is the disaster management? This happened in August! For over 8 months, people have been suffering. This is not just about a bridge, it's about healthcare, livelihoods, and education. The system has failed these villagers. Accountability is needed.
K
Kavya N
My heart goes out to the parents. I can't imagine sending my child to school under such conditions. The authorities must prioritize this. A temporary Bailey bridge could be a quick fix. Why isn't that being explored? Hope they get their lifeline back soon. 🙏

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