The Mohandri Bridge, which had been devastated by recent floods, has been rebuilt, reinstating crucial access to the Kaghan Valley.
Following the bridge’s collapse, the Kaghan Valley Road had been closed for 14 days, disrupting travel to northern areas and Naran. With the road now reopened, connectivity between Kaghan Valley and Balakot has been restored.
The newly constructed bridge was officially inaugurated by Member of National Assembly Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, Captain Safdar, and other officials. The ceremony included the slaughter of a sacrificial animal and the distribution of sweets to mark the occasion.
The road closure had significant economic repercussions, leading to substantial losses for the local hotel industry, amounting to millions of rupees. The recent monsoon rains caused widespread devastation across the Kaghan Valley, including fatalities and severe property damage.
A mother and son lost their lives in Manoor, while 16 shops were destroyed by flooding from the river and Manoor stream. The collapse of the Mohandri Bridge left numerous tourists and locals stranded in the valley.
In addition to the bridge, the disaster also damaged 12 small turbine bridges in Manoor Valley and several connecting roads.
Many trout fish farms were wiped out, resulting in further financial losses estimated in the millions. The recent events have highlighted the urgent need for ongoing infrastructure and disaster management efforts in the region.
