Ramban: Days after torrential rains washed away a key road link in Ramban district the Indian Army has restored vital connectivity by launching a 150-foot reinforced Maitra Bridge over the Chenab valley cliffs. The bridge, executed by the Army’s White Knight Engineers has reopened the Karol Maitra road an artery that connects administrative hubs and villages of the region.
Officials said the washed-away stretch had left locals stranded and disrupted movement of essential supplies. The new triple-panel double-storey Bailey bridge is designed to handle heavy traffic and ensure long-term stability in a geologically fragile zone. The construction effort was supported by the BRO, NHAI, local police and the district administration.
Defence PRO Lt. Col. Suneel Bartwal noted that the bridge launch was part of wider humanitarian operations under the initiative #HumAapkeSaathHain. Relief measures have already reached districts such as Kishtwar, Doda, Ramban, Udhampur, Reasi, Akhnoor, Rajouri and Poonch. Over 5,000 residents have received assistance with multiple medical and veterinary camps set up in remote areas.
“The construction of the Maitra Bridge has restored the lifeline for Ramban. Each bridge rebuilt, each camp conducted, each family helped all strengthen the bond of faith and confidence between the armed forces and the local population,” Lt. Col. Bartwal said.
Connectivity in Jammu’s hilly districts often suffers due to landslides and flash floods leaving villages cut off for days. The swift restoration in Ramban underscores the role of the armed forces not only in defense but also in disaster relief and civic support. Analysts note that such rapid interventions also complement long-term infrastructure upgrades undertaken by civilian agencies.
Attribution:
Parts of this report draw on details published by Times of India and Rising Kashmir, along with official inputs from Defence PRO statements.
