Rehan Qayoom Mir
Srinagar, Feb 15: The fencing of bridges in Srinagar city and other parts of the Kashmir Valley has emerged as a noteworthy step in preventing suicide incidents, with no cases reported in the last seven months, officials from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) here said.
Officials said the fencing initiative is proving to be effective in curbing such incidents. They added that the current low water levels in the Jhelum River and other water bodies could be another contributing factor to the reduced numbers.
According to details, the process of fencing several bridges in Srinagar was initiated to safeguard human lives. At the time, the Deputy Commissioner of Srinagar had announced the formulation of a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the fencing work.
As per the DPR, Rs 19 lakh each was allocated for the fencing of Nawa Kadal and Fateh Kadal bridges, Rs 9 lakh for Gaw Kadal bridge, and Rs 29 lakh for Safa Kadal bridge. Additionally, the fencing of Noor Jahan Bridge over the Jhelum at Qamarwari was set to be completed at a cost of Rs 11 lakh.
Meanwhile, Srinagar residents, reacting to the decrease in incidents, have welcomed the move, saying it has made the bridges safer. “It was a much-needed step. We have witnessed many unfortunate incidents in the past. Fencing has definitely reduced the risk, and we hope the authorities continue such preventive measures,” said Bilal Ahmad, a resident of Fateh Kadal.
Another local, Tariq from Qamarwari, said the initiative should be expanded further. “This is a good step, but authorities should also focus on mental health awareness. Prevention is important, but people in distress also need counselling and support,” he said.
Notably, with the initiative now showing positive results, officials believe the move has played a crucial role in preventing tragic incidents in the city, which has also received a positive response from locals.
