SRINAGAR: A portion of the embankment along the river Jhelum has caved in at Check-e-Chandergeer in the Hajin area of Bandipora district, prompting the administration to suspend the movement of heavy vehicles as a precautionary measure.
The sudden damage has caused concern among residents, who said the stretch of road where the collapse occurred serves as a crucial link connecting several Sonawari villages with Hajin town and other districts. They said cracks had appeared on the road surface over the past few days, triggering fears of a larger collapse similar to one reported earlier this year in the same area.
Locals said the embankment had been showing signs of weakness for years and accused the authorities of failing to take preventive steps despite repeated visits by officials. They urged that the damaged section be repaired immediately and that the piling work previously approved for Check-e-Chandergeer be extended to cover this vulnerable stretch.
Residents also warned that the repair must be completed before the onset of Chilla-e-Kalan, the harsh phase of winter, when movement and construction work in the region become difficult. They said the road connects Hajin with Bandipora, Srinagar, and Baramulla, and any prolonged disruption would affect daily travel and transport.
Officials said the embankment had shown signs of sinking earlier this year. The damaged portion, they added, is under constant observation, and permanent restoration work will begin once the area stabilises. The administration has already imposed restrictions on heavy motor vehicles and is working on alternate routes between Hajin and Ajas to ensure commuter safety.
