Jalgot [POGB], The RCC bridge connecting Jalgot and Bonji in Pakistan occupied Gilgit Baltistan (POGB) is now a prime example of poor infrastructure development. Local reports on Monday revealed that the bridge, now in disrepair, poses a significant risk of accidents.
The construction of this bridge started two years ago, but it was suddenly closed due to lack of approach road, making it unusable. Despite being incomplete, local people have been forced to use it for transportation. This situation is emblematic of the many abandoned projects in the PoGB, representing a waste of significant investment.Interestingly, the wooden bridge constructed earlier now serves as a major transit route for the local people and is in better condition than the incomplete RCC bridge. A local expert criticized the quality of materials used in such projects, suggesting poor construction practices.
Residents have long expressed frustration over the deteriorating infrastructure and poor road conditions in the area. Members of the Awami Action Committee (AAC) expressed disappointment over the government's failure to provide basic amenities, highlighting the dire condition of local roadways.
An AAC worker lamented, “The maintenance of the roads is so bad that people carrying sacks of wheat are at risk of falling into the river." "The authorities should take immediate action to improve conditions in Khanbari. “Residents are distressed, yet their pleas remain unheard, which exposes the incompetence and apathy of the local government.”
In response to continued neglect, AAC leaders have threatened to launch a 'chakka jam' strike in Gilgit-Baltistan if immediate action is not taken to resolve the road issues in Khanbari.
The report concluded, "For years, residents of Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan have protested against inadequate road infrastructure and government indifference to their grievances."
The administration, acting as a representative of higher authorities, has consistently ignored public concerns, choosing to suppress dissent rather than address the underlying issues.
The construction of this bridge started two years ago, but it was suddenly closed due to lack of approach road, making it unusable. Despite being incomplete, local people have been forced to use it for transportation. This situation is emblematic of the many abandoned projects in the PoGB, representing a waste of significant investment.Interestingly, the wooden bridge constructed earlier now serves as a major transit route for the local people and is in better condition than the incomplete RCC bridge. A local expert criticized the quality of materials used in such projects, suggesting poor construction practices.
Residents have long expressed frustration over the deteriorating infrastructure and poor road conditions in the area. Members of the Awami Action Committee (AAC) expressed disappointment over the government's failure to provide basic amenities, highlighting the dire condition of local roadways.
An AAC worker lamented, “The maintenance of the roads is so bad that people carrying sacks of wheat are at risk of falling into the river." "The authorities should take immediate action to improve conditions in Khanbari. “Residents are distressed, yet their pleas remain unheard, which exposes the incompetence and apathy of the local government.”
In response to continued neglect, AAC leaders have threatened to launch a 'chakka jam' strike in Gilgit-Baltistan if immediate action is not taken to resolve the road issues in Khanbari.
The report concluded, "For years, residents of Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan have protested against inadequate road infrastructure and government indifference to their grievances."
The administration, acting as a representative of higher authorities, has consistently ignored public concerns, choosing to suppress dissent rather than address the underlying issues.
