Over the past 15 days, the region has been severely affected, with 15 bridges being washed away and 34 others suffering substantial damage. This has resulted in significant disruptions to both vehicular and pedestrian movement in several parts of the state
A recent report from Chandigarh, highlights the devastating impact of heavy rainfall and flash floods on the infrastructure in the Indian state of Shimla, said a special report in The Tribune, Chandigarh.
Over the past 15 days, the region has been severely affected, with 15 bridges being washed away and 34 others suffering substantial damage. This has resulted in significant disruptions to both vehicular and pedestrian movement in several parts of the state.
The damage to roads has been equally alarming, with the number of damaged roads surpassing 1,000, out of which 566 roads are yet to be restored for traffic.
The Public Works Department (PWD) has been particularly impacted, with most of the destroyed bridges located in the Mandi and Kullu circles. The Mandi circle lost five bridges, while the Kullu circle lost four. Additionally, four bridges in upper Shimla and Kinnaur were also washed away.
The loss of these bridges has had a profound effect on the day-to-day lives of people in the affected areas. In response, the PWD is working to repair the damaged bridges and provide alternatives where possible.
They are considering the construction of bailey bridges as temporary replacements and have already built one in Kotkhai. Efforts are also underway to establish spans to ensure the restoration of essential commodity supplies.
Overall, the flash floods and heavy rain have caused significant damage to the infrastructure in Shimla, affecting the daily lives of residents. The authorities are working diligently to repair and rebuild the damaged bridges and roads, with a focus on ensuring the smooth flow of traffic and essential services in the region
The preliminary assessment by the PWD estimates the loss of washed-away bridges at Rs 54.47 crore and the damage to bridges at Rs 41 crore. However, the actual cost will be determined once Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) are created for the construction of new bridges.
Besides bridges, the department is facing challenges in restoring roads for vehicular movement, especially district and link roads. As of the report, 566 roads are still blocked, with Shimla district experiencing the highest number of road closures, totaling 363. Efforts to restore these roads are being prioritized and carried out on an urgent basis.
Overall, the flash floods and heavy rain have caused significant damage to the infrastructure in Shimla, affecting the daily lives of residents. The authorities are working diligently to repair and rebuild the damaged bridges and roads, with a focus on ensuring the smooth flow of traffic and essential services in the region.
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