Shimla, August 2
The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has restored a vital road link in the tribal district of Lahaul and Spiti by constructing a new bridge at Jhalama in record time after the previous structure was severely damaged by flash floods and boulders during the recent monsoon.
Deputy commissioner Lahaul spiti Ms Kiran Bhadana dedicated newly constructed bridge on Saturday in the presence of the Chief Engineer of BRO, Deputy Commissioner of Lahaul and Spiti and the Superintendent of Police, marking the restoration of an important route connecting Keylong with Udaipur and further to the remote Pangi and Bharmour regions.
The Jhalama bridge had suffered extensive damage after a massive boulder struck it during heavy rains, forcing the closure of the highway and disrupting movement for several days. The incident left hundreds of commuters and vehicles stranded on both sides of the road.
As an immediate measure, the BRO had constructed a temporary diversion across a nearby nullah to restore limited traffic for light vehicles while work on a permanent structure was taken up on a war footing.
Within a remarkably short period, BRO engineers and workers completed the construction of the new bridge despite difficult terrain, adverse weather and logistical challenges.
The reopening of the bridge has fully restored road connectivity, bringing major relief to residents, transporters and tourists travelling through the region.
Officials said the project highlights the BRO’s engineering capability and its commitment to maintaining strategic and civilian road connectivity in the Himalayan region.
The bridge will ensure uninterrupted movement of people, essential commodities and emergency services in the tribal areas.
The district administration appreciated the efforts of the BRO for completing the work swiftly and restoring normal traffic. The reopening of the Jhalama bridge is expected to strengthen connectivity in Lahaul Valley and improve access to the remote areas of Pangi and Bharmour, which are heavily dependent on this route during the summer and monsoon seasons.
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