The Aryavarth Express
Ramban (Jammu and Kashmir): A long-awaited infrastructure boost has arrived for residents of Ramban district, with the General Reserve Engineering Force (GREF) of Beacon completing a 45-metre-long, 12-metre-wide double-lane steel superstructure bridge over the Chhapar Nallah in Sangaldan, Gool tehsil. Built at a cost of ₹9 crore, the bridge is expected to significantly ease travel hardships for thousands of commuters.
The project also includes a half-kilometre approach road on both sides, constructed for ₹4 crore. For years, Chhapar Nallah posed a major challenge for people travelling between Ramban, Gool-Sangaldan, and Mahore in Reasi district. During rains, the nallah would flood, often cutting off the road and stranding travellers—including patients, students, and government employees.
Residents say the completion of the bridge fulfils a long-pending demand and will greatly improve connectivity while boosting tourism in the scenic Gool valley.
Arshad Ahmad, a local taxi driver, recalled the difficulties: “Chhapar Nallah used to close during rainfall, forcing us to wait for one or two days. It affected our livelihood. We are grateful to GREF for building this bridge—now these problems will be resolved.”
District Development Council (DDC) Chairperson Dr. Shamshad Shaan said the bridge eliminates a major bottleneck on the key route that serves nearly 1.5 lakh people across Ramban, Gool tehsil, Mahore, and parts of Rajouri. “This bridge was a long-pending demand. Many commuters had to walk across Chhapar Nallah to reach Gool. Several people were injured, and vehicles frequently got damaged. The completion of this ₹9 crore project is a big relief,” she noted.
With the Sangaldan railway station located just 10 km from the site, the bridge is also expected to facilitate smoother travel for train passengers. Appreciating GREF’s efforts, Dr. Shaan added that the new structure will play a vital role in strengthening tourism in Gool and surrounding areas.
