Baramulla, Mar 23: A dilapidated suspension bridge and lack of safety measures for zipline operations have raised serious concerns at a popular eco park in Baramulla, with locals warning of a potential disaster if urgent steps are not taken.
The wooden suspension bridge over the river Jhelum, which connects the park to the highway, has become a major safety hazard.
Over the past two days, particularly ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr, thousands of visitors—including women, children and the elderly—thronged the park, leading to overcrowding on the narrow structure.
Visitors said hundreds of people were seen crossing the bridge simultaneously, increasing the risk of structural failure. The condition of the bridge has further worsened the situation, with several wooden planks damaged or missing, exposing the river below.
“How can authorities allow such heavy footfall on a bridge that is already damaged? The river is clearly visible through broken sections,” said Bilal Ahmad, a visitor.
Concerns were also raised over unruly behaviour by some, who were seen shaking the bridge, triggering panic among pedestrians, especially women and children.
“There should be security personnel regulating entry to the bridge and limiting the number of people at a time,” said another visitor, Arshad Hussain.
Adding to the risk is a zipline facility operating over the river, which locals allege lacks basic safety arrangements. There is no visible emergency response system, such as rescue boats stationed below, in case of an accident.
“A zipline over a fast-flowing river like the Jhelum must have proper safety mechanisms. Here, there appears to be none,” another visitor said.
Residents also flagged concerns over the zipline being operated during evening hours, when low visibility increases the chances of mishaps.
Locals and visitors have urged authorities to conduct an immediate safety audit of the bridge, regulate crowd movement and enforce strict safety protocols for adventure activities at the site.
“If ignored, this could lead to a tragedy,” a resident warned.
