OVERHEAD pedestrian bridges are constructed to facilitate the public and to avoid accidents on busy roads and at intersections. But, unfortunately, while we do see several pedestrian bridges in the city, they are often in a dilapidated condition to the extent that one prefers to take the risk of an accident and crosses road instead of using such bridges.

Usually, there is no maintenance done in case of damage to the side grills and flooring of these pedestrian bridges, and with time this negligence starts posing danger to those using the overhead bridges.

One such bridge is located at one of the busiest roads of the city, the University Road, right in front of the Expo Centre just opposite Hassan Square.

The said bridge does not have barriers and even the metal sheets that had been installed in place of wrought-iron railings are missing, making it hazardous, especially for children and the elderly, as can be seen in the accompanying picture.

It is not uncommon to see such bridges having rusted metal floor with gaping holes that can be fatal to anyone using the bridge, especially at night and when an adult is using the bridge with two to three children. All such bridges need to be repaired as soon as possible to avoid any untoward incident.

Shakil Khawaja
Karachi

Published in Dawn, July 3rd, 2022