JAMMU: Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Choudhary, today informed the House that the Sopore Byepass Bridge was originally constructed with a rigid Cement Concrete (CC) deck surface to bear heavy structural loads and provide a stable base for traffic movement over a long period of time.
The Deputy Chief Minister was replying to the Calling Attention Notice moved by Legislator Irshad Rasool Kar in the Legislative Assembly today.
He informed that to enhance riding comfort for road users and to provide a smoother driving experience, an additional bituminous (blacktop) layer was laid over the concrete deck to improve surface smoothness and reduce vibrations during travel.
He also said that minor localized distress (damage) can develop in the top bituminous layer which appears in the form of small patches, cracks, unevenness or surface peeling at isolated locations. He added that due to heavy and continuous traffic load associated with Sopore Fruit Mandi, bridge experiences a high volume of vehicular movement accelerating wear and tear of the bituminous overlay.
The Deputy Chief Minister also said that there is no structural deficiency or safety concern in the bridge itself and the main concrete structure remains fully intact, stable, and safe for vehicular movement.
He also added that prompt action was taken by the concerned authorities and Project BEACON has already initiated necessary repair measures like careful removal of the damaged bituminous portions, treatment of the affected areas to ensure proper bonding restoration using more durable, concrete-based or suitable materials to prevent recurrence.
The Deputy CM also said that at present repair work is being carried out on a priority basis and the situation is being closely monitored by the executing agency. He added that all necessary resources have been mobilized and the remaining repair work will be completed expeditiously. He highlighted that the safety of the bridge remains un-compromised, and necessary corrective measures are already underway to restore full riding quality for the public at the earliest.
