In his first application, Malik urged the DLSA to intervene for the reconstruction and widening of the decades-old Sandran Bridge at Dooru, which connects Dooru with Verinag. He stated that the bridge has remained neglected for more than four decades and has become a serious safety hazard due to its narrow width and deteriorated condition.

 

Malik highlighted that the bridge lacks proper pedestrian walkways, forcing people to walk alongside moving vehicles and exposing them to the risk of accidents. He requested the authority to ensure widening of the bridge, construction of footpaths on both sides and implementation of necessary safety measures for commuters.

 

In a separate public grievance petition, Malik sought DLSA’s intervention regarding an unfinished lift irrigation and water supply project being executed by the Jal Shakti Department in villages near the new tunnel area, including Mazmoo, Bakarwal Chak, Vangund, Toungloo and adjoining localities.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

 

According to the petition, the project, estimated to cost around ?4 crore, was initiated in 2024 and nearly 95 percent of the work, including laying of DI and GI pipelines, has already been completed. However, the remaining work involving connection of the pipelines to the main water source has allegedly remained suspended for the past two years.

 

Malik said that the delay has left thousands of residents facing an acute drinking water shortage despite substantial public expenditure on the project. He urged the authority to seek an explanation from the concerned departments and direct them to complete the remaining work without further delay.

 

The PDP leader maintained that both issues directly affect public welfare and safety and require immediate attention from the concerned authorities in the larger interest of the people of the region.(KNS).