Doda: A six-metre-span culvert collapsed on the Gill Kunan Road in the Bhless area of Doda district in Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday, raising fresh concerns over road safety and infrastructure in the region.
The collapse has caused concern among local residents, who said the road has been in poor condition for a prolonged period. According to residents, the area has faced inadequate road connectivity for around a year and a half, with several accidents reportedly occurring along the stretch.
A local resident claimed that an earlier accident at the site had left 15 people injured and resulted in the death of a woman. The latest collapse, they said, narrowly avoided another major accident.
Residents have alleged that repeated complaints about the road and culvert have not resulted in a permanent solution. They said a large population depends on the road for daily travel and has been approaching the Sub-Divisional Magistrate’s office over the issue.
The condition of the culvert has also raised questions about the quality of construction work. A resident alleged that poor-quality material used in the structure may have contributed to the recurring problems and urged authorities to take action against the contractor.
The resident also said that two engineers had previously been suspended in connection with the issue and appealed to the newly appointed engineer to personally inspect the road and the collapsed structure.
The Sub-Divisional Magistrate has reportedly taken steps on the matter, but residents claimed that the work remained incomplete. They have now called for immediate intervention to restore the road and ensure that the repaired structure meets safety standards.
The collapse comes at a time when several parts of Jammu and Kashmir are experiencing weather-related challenges, making reliable road connectivity particularly important in hilly districts such as Doda.
Authorities are expected to assess the damage and take necessary measures to restore movement on the affected stretch. Residents, meanwhile, are seeking a durable solution rather than temporary repairs, citing the road’s importance for the local population.
The incident has once again highlighted concerns over the condition and maintenance of rural road infrastructure in the mountainous district. With previous accidents and complaints already on record, locals are demanding urgent action to prevent further mishaps and ensure safe connectivity.
