GUJRANWALA: All the railway gates of the city have been locked since March 21 due to lockdown creating problems for motorists to travel across the city.

Gujranwala is situated along GT Road while 20km long track runs across the city with five level crossings on it. The railway track divides the city into two parts and the closure of the crossings has made it impossible for motorists to reach the other side.

Most of the government offices and educational institutes are on the eastern side of the track. Other than ordinary vehicles, ambulances have to take longer routes to cross the track. Motorcyclists are using a pedestrian bridge over the railway line near Gondwanaland Phattak.

The bridge was constructed by the administration with an expenditure of Rs5 million a few years ago. The bridge has developed cracks.

People fear that in this situation, the pedestrian bridge may collapse anytime. The have demanded the opening of level crossings and reconstruction of the pedestrian bridge.

Published in Dawn, April 18th, 2020