SRINAGAR: The Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Udhampur has imposed a strict ban on the movement of heavy vehicles over the Salmey Bridge/Aqueduct in view of safety concerns and potential structural risk.
Acting under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, ADM, Umesh Shan issued the order after reports indicated continued movement of heavy dumpers, trucks and overloaded vehicles over the structure despite it being declared unsafe for such loads.
According to the order, the Executive Engineer, Civil Maintenance Division, PDC Udhampur, in a communication dated May 13, 2026, reported that heavy vehicles were still plying over the Salmey Aqueduct. The report stated that such movement poses a serious threat to the structural integrity of the bridge and was supported by photographic evidence.
The administration noted that restrictions had previously been imposed in 2022, while traffic over the bridge was also temporarily suspended in January 2024 due to safety considerations. Despite this, officials observed continued violations.
The order states that the ongoing movement of heavy vehicles could aggravate damage to the structure and create an imminent risk to human life and public property.
In view of these concerns, the ADM has directed that the movement of heavy vehicles, including heavily loaded dumpers, trucks and other overloaded transport, shall remain strictly prohibited over the Salmey Bridge/Aqueduct with immediate effect.
The order has been issued ex-parte and will remain in force until further instructions.
