GUJAR KHAN: The decades-old Kansi bridge linking Gujar Khan city with the eastern region of the tehsil as well as Azad Kashmir is facing imminent danger of collapse due to the nonstoperosion of its concrete apron and bed.

The residents of the area said the bridge was located on the all-time flowing stream coming from Kahuta and Kallar areas. Kansi bridge was constructed through a grant allocated to then MNA Raja Abdul Aziz Bhatti (late) in the government of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto in 1971-72.

However, the erosion of its concrete beds beneath and fortifying aprons has almost undermined its foundations and the roots of the pillars are now exposed.

Raja Khalid Janjua, a residentof village Mattoah, said all the upper structure and beams of the pillars were in good condition due to the quality work but the erosion of its base was posing danger to the bridge.

The superintending engineer of the Punjab highway department Rawalpindi, when contacted, said, “A request for the provision of Rs75, for the repair ofthe two spans ofKansi bridge on Gujar Khan-Bewal roadis already submitted.” He said once the funds were approved and released, the maintenance and repair work on the bridge would start.

Published in Dawn, July 17th, 2024