Tragedy Strikes Near Thathar: Ancient Bridge Collapses on Bantalab-Kot Bhalwal Road; 7 Dead

Tragedy Strikes Near Thathar: Ancient Bridge Collapses on Bantalab-Kot Bhalwal Road; 7 Dead
​JAMMU – In a devastating incident that has sent shockwaves through the region, a long-neglected road bridge on the Bantalab-Kot Bhalwal Road, situated near the Thathar petrol pump, collapsed earlier today. The catastrophe has claimed at least seven lives, leaving several others injured.
​The bridge, which locals describe as "ancient" and "dilapidated," gave way suddenly, trapping vehicles and pedestrians beneath the debris. Local residents have expressed deep-seated anger, alleging that the structure had been ignored by successive administrations for years despite its visible decay.
​RLD Leader Demands Immediate Accountability and Relief
​Responding to the tragedy, Mohammad Anees Choudhary, General Secretary of the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) J&K Unit, issued a stern statement condemning the administrative negligence that led to this loss of life.
​"It is a matter of profound grief and administrative shame. This bridge was standing on borrowed time, yet once the government was formed, the safety of this vital link was completely forgotten. The blood of these innocent citizens is on the hands of those who ignored the warnings," Choudhary stated.
​Formal Appeal to the Administration
​On behalf of the Rashtriya Lok Dal, Mohammad Anees Choudhary has made an urgent appeal to the Chief Minister, the Chief Secretary, and the Honorable Governor to intervene immediately with the following demands:
​Ex-gratia Compensation: An immediate payment of ₹20 Lakh to the next of kin of those who lost their lives.
​Injury Compensation: A sum of ₹10 Lakh for those who sustained injuries in the collapse.
​Medical Care: Guaranteed free, high-quality medical treatment for all survivors at premier healthcare facilities.
​High-Level Inquiry: A time-bound investigation to identify the officials responsible for failing to maintain or decommission the bridge.
​A Community in Mourning
​As rescue operations conclude and the scale of the tragedy becomes clear, the RLD extends its deepest condolences to the bereaved families. "We stand with the people of Thathar and Kot Bhalwal in this dark hour," said Choudhary. "We will not rest until justice is served and every old, precarious structure in this UT is audited and made safe."