SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday inaugurated the 3×43-metre PSC Girder Double Lane Noor Jahan Bridge at Qamarwari, a major infrastructure project built over the River Jhelum to decongest traffic and improve connectivity between Qamarwari and Noorbagh, linking directly to the vital Nallahmar Road.
Constructed at a cost of Rs 12.77 crore, the bridge is expected to significantly reduce travel time and ease vehicular movement in one of Srinagar’s most congested corridors, benefiting commuters, traders and residents of the adjoining areas.
Addressing a large gathering after the inauguration, Omar Abdullah said, “This bridge’s foundation was laid by me and after 11 years our government comes back to complete it and today dedicate it to the people.”
The Chief Minister emphasised that despite challenges, his government remained committed to development, dignity and peace, adding that his administration was focused on bringing Jammu and Kashmir “on the path of progress and prosperity”.
Reiterating his call for the restoration of statehood, Abdullah said the promise had been repeatedly made by the Central leadership. “People participated enthusiastically in last year’s elections as statehood was promised to them after polls. There is no political party which didn’t talk about its restoration,” he noted.
He further reaffirmed his government’s resolve to strengthen Srinagar’s transport infrastructure, pledging that all developmental promises would be fulfilled. “After completing our term, we will present ourselves before the people to judge our government’s performance,” he said.
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLAs Mubarak Gul and Tariq Hameed Karra, along with senior officers and officials from concerned departments, attended the event.
The Noor Jahan Bridge is expected to serve as a key urban link, enhancing mobility, reducing congestion, and facilitating smoother access for thousands of daily commuters across central Srinagar.
