₹4.95 Crore Mehjoor Nagar Bridge Hit by Theft, Finials Stolen, Electrical Units Tampered

Srinagar, April 17: A recently constructed pedestrian footbridge in the Mehjoor Nagar area of Srinagar has come under scrutiny following widespread reports of theft, vandalism, and emerging safety concerns, including missing metal components and tampered electrical infrastructure.
​The footbridge, constructed at a reported cost of ₹4.95 crore by the Lakes and Rivers Waterways Development (LRWD) under the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), has suffered the loss of several decorative metal spheres installed along its railings. Visual evidence from the site confirms multiple railing posts have been left exposed after their spherical finials were systematically removed.
​Local residents reported that at least 32 of these metal spheres were stolen overnight, indicating a coordinated pattern of organized theft rather than isolated incidents of vandalism.
​The incident has generated significant safety apprehensions. An electrical unit situated near the bridge, intended for illumination, has been left entirely exposed and unsecured. Furthermore, an adjacent electric pole exhibits signs of tampering, with loosened nuts and partially removed bolts suggesting an attempted theft that could severely compromise structural stability.
​These developments underscore broader concerns regarding the maintenance, surveillance, and safeguarding of newly developed public infrastructure across the city. Residents expressed dismay over the destruction, noting that the removal of these components not only diminishes the bridge's aesthetic value but also highlights a profound lack of civic responsibility. While official confirmation is pending, some community members suspect the involvement of local drug addicts.
​"There is visible damage to public property, and people are increasingly worried about their safety," one resident stated, referencing the exposed electrical installations and tampered fixtures.
​The community has heavily criticized the absence of surveillance measures at the site, particularly given the project's substantial financial investment. The lack of CCTV cameras or active monitoring systems has drawn sharp rebuke, as such measures could deter criminal activity and aid in identifying perpetrators.
​In response, locals have issued an appeal to scrap dealers and metal buyers, urging them to alert law enforcement immediately if the stolen items are presented for sale. They warned that individuals facilitating the purchase of stolen public property could face severe legal repercussions.
​The incident has prompted significant introspection regarding civic duty, with many characterizing the vandalism as a serious security lapse. There is mounting apprehension that other structural components, particularly the bridge's electrical and lighting systems, may be targeted next if preventative measures are not implemented promptly.
​The Mehjoor Nagar footbridge was officially inaugurated following a foundation stone-laying ceremony on August 25, 2022, attended by senior municipal officials and local representatives. [KNT]