SHOPIAN: Nearly a decade after being washed away in the devastating 2014 floods, the Trenz Bridge in South Kashmir’s Shopian district is finally nearing completion, bringing relief and joy to locals who had long awaited its restoration.
The bridge, a vital link connecting Shopian with several areas of Pulwama district, was crucial for residents—particularly fruit growers—who faced immense hardships in its absence. Transportation of produce, access to markets, and connectivity to cold storage facilities were all severely affected over the years.
In 2016, then Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti laid the foundation stone of the project and assured its swift completion. However, work was stalled for several years due to administrative and technical hurdles. It was only two years ago that the Roads and Buildings (R&B) Department, Zainapora Division, resumed construction.
Built at an estimated cost of around ₹25 crore, the 300-meter-long bridge has now entered its final stages. Officials say it will be opened to the public soon.
Residents have expressed gratitude to the R&B Department for their persistent efforts. “After years of struggle, this bridge is finally about to be dedicated to the people. We have waited for this moment for more than a decade,” said locals.
They also urged the government to expedite other pending developmental projects in Shopian to accelerate the district’s growth and prosperity.
