Suspension Bridge Over Basantar River Inaugurated in Jammu’s Samba to Improve Rural Connectivity
MLA Surjit Singh Slathia on Tuesday inaugurated a foot suspension bridge over the Basantar river in Samotha village of Samba district, marking a step toward improving rural connectivity in the region.
The 100-metre-long bridge, constructed under a scheme supported by National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), has been built at a cost of ₹172.62 lakh, according to official information.
Key Highlights
- 100-metre foot suspension bridge constructed over Basantar river
- Built at a cost of ₹172.62 lakh under NABARD funding
- Connects several villages in the Sumb block of Samba district
- Expected to improve year-round mobility, especially during monsoon
Project Details and Purpose
The newly inaugurated bridge is expected to benefit residents of multiple nearby villages, including Beli, Sarla, Daban, Bru, Dagetar and Bela Dawala. Officials said the structure will enable safer and more reliable movement of people, particularly during the monsoon season when rising water levels in the river often disrupt access.
The project is designed to improve access to essential services such as schools, healthcare facilities and local markets, which have historically been difficult to reach during adverse weather conditions.
Official Statement
Speaking at the inauguration, Slathia said the bridge would strengthen connectivity and contribute to local development. He described infrastructure projects in rural areas as important for improving quality of life and enabling economic activity.
He also noted that improving connectivity remains a priority for ongoing development initiatives in Jammu and Kashmir.
Context / Background
Rural infrastructure development in Jammu and Kashmir has been a key focus area in recent years, with several projects aimed at improving road access, bridges and public utilities in remote regions. NABARD-funded schemes often support such initiatives by providing financial assistance for infrastructure in underserved areas.
Foot suspension bridges are commonly used in hilly or riverine regions where conventional road bridges may not be feasible due to terrain or cost constraints.
Public Impact
The bridge is expected to reduce travel disruptions for hundreds of residents, particularly during heavy rains. Easier access to schools and healthcare facilities could improve education and health outcomes, while better connectivity to markets may support local livelihoods.
For residents in these villages, the structure could serve as a critical link to essential services throughout the year.
The completion of the Basantar suspension bridge highlights ongoing efforts to address connectivity gaps in rural Jammu and Kashmir. Authorities indicate that similar infrastructure projects may continue as part of broader plans to improve accessibility and support regional development.
Inputs & Images: Hindusthan Samachar
Edited by: Pushkarini Annabathula
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Last Updated on: Tuesday, April 21, 2026 6:33 pm by Pushkarini Annabathula | Published by: Pushkarini Annabathula on Tuesday, April 21, 2026 6:33 pm | News Categories: Latest
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