Villagers Rebuild Wooden Bridge Over Tirthan River for the Third Time

Original bridge was destroyed in floods

In a remarkable display of resilience and community spirit, residents of the Kandi Dhar panchayat in Tirthan Valley, Banjar subdivision of Kullu district, have once again built a temporary wooden bridge across the Tirthan River — the third such effort after repeated destruction by floods.

The original iron footbridge linking Baridropa with Jawal was partially damaged in the devastating 2023 floods. While the middle span survived, one end was swept away when the river changed course. Since then, no permanent repairs have been carried out, leaving locals without a safe crossing.

Villagers first erected a makeshift wooden extension to reconnect the broken section, enabling daily movement. However, the structure was washed away in another flash flood on August 13 this year. Undeterred, residents rebuilt it, only to see the river claim it again.

Now, for the third time — without financial or logistical support from the government — villagers have pooled local resources, labor, and determination to restore the temporary bridge. The structure provides a vital lifeline for hundreds of residents, students, tourists, and workers who rely on this route every day.

The crossing is a crucial link between remote villages and tourist destinations in the Banjar subdivision. Locals allege that despite repeated appeals to the district administration and state government, including through the “Sarkar Gaon Ke Dwar” outreach program, no permanent solution has been provided.

Community leaders and residents have contributed selflessly to build the bridge each time, but its recurring collapse continues to endanger schoolchildren, villagers, and visitors.

The people of Tirthan Valley have renewed their call for the construction of a durable, high-quality permanent bridge to prevent future risks to life and property. Until then, they say, they will continue to rely on their own unity, strength, and determination — a testament to their resilience in the face of neglect.