Hiranagar (Kathua District), May 30: Residents of Hiranagar and surrounding areas are once again facing severe hardships as the Bela Slab constructed over Saida Nala has been rendered unusable due to heavy waterlogging following today's rains.

The low-lying slab bridge, which serves as a vital link for several villages, has submerged & washed away, completely disrupting local connectivity. Commuters, including schoolchildren, patients, and daily wage workers, are forced to take long detours or risk crossing the swollen nala, raising serious safety concerns.

This has become an annual problem. Every monsoon season, the rising water level in Saida Nala inundates the slab, exposing the poor design and inadequate height of the structure. Locals claim that despite repeated complaints, authorities have failed to provide a permanent solution.

Speaking to locals, many expressed frustration over the recurring issue. “Every year during rains we face the same problem. Children miss school, patients cannot reach hospitals on time, and daily life comes to a standstill,” said a resident.

Demand for Permanent Solution

People are demanding the construction of a permanent high-level bridge so that it remains functional even during heavy rainfall. They have also urged the administration to carry out regular desilting of Saida Nala to improve water flow.

This recurring infrastructure failure highlights the need for climate-resilient rural connectivity projects in the Jammu region, especially in low-lying areas prone to flooding.