Srinagar, May 7: Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah today laid foundation of a bridge at River Jehlum at Vethapora-Soiteng near here. The construction of 120 metre long double-lane PSC girder type Bridge involves an expenditure of over Rs. 13.39 crores, an official spokesman said. 
  He said the bridge would provide direct connectivity to Srinagar- Jammu highway benefiting about 1.5 lakh population residing in the areas of Vethapora, Soiteng, Lasjan, Padshahibagh and Nowgam. “The bridge would also provide an alternative for the motorists entering the city from south Kashmir reducing traffic congestion to some extent. The bridge is expected to be completed in 36 months,” he added.
 The Chief Minister said that the government has focused attention on construction of bridges and road network all across the State to upgrade the road communication facilities and link up rural and remote areas with main highways.
 He said bridges play significant importance in making the road communication smooth, less time consuming and more dependable. “We have started construction of scores of bridges in the state in various areas”, he said adding that scores of bridges have already been opened for traffic during the last three years.
 Omar asked the JKPCC the executing agency of Vethapora bridge to ensure its completion within the targeted time frame. “You should try to reduce the time frame from three years to two and a half  years”, he directed the JKPCC.
 He said the construction of this bridge will prove highly beneficial for the people of the area and help to decongest traffic.

Lastupdate on : Mon, 7 May 2012 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Mon, 7 May 2012 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Tue, 8 May 2012 00:00:00 IST