Historic Naidyar bridge in Srinagar faces neglect

SRINAGAR: The Naidyar Bridge in Rainawari, Srinagar, a structure of significant historical and architectural importance, is deteriorating due to years of neglect with locals of the area urging the authorities to take immediate restoration steps.

Believed to have been built during the Mughal era, the brick-and-limestone bridge features a distinctive arch-shaped structure, once attracting tourists from around the world. However, a lack of maintenance, harsh weather conditions and increasing vehicular movement have led to its current state of disrepair.
A local shopkeeper, Abdul Rahman said the bridge is in a worst condition due to administrative negligence. “Tourists used to visit this bridge for its unique design, but today, it is struggling to retain its historical significance,” he said and appealed the authorities to repair the bridge forthwith so that a heritage site is preserved.

Abdul Rouf, a resident stated that the bridge is an integral part of Rainawari’s architectural heritage, and its restoration is urgently needed to preserve Kashmir’s rich cultural legacy. Abdul Majeed, another local, recalled that minor repairs were carried out five to six years ago, but the work was unsatisfactory and failed to prevent further deterioration.

Chief Engineer of the Public Works (R&B) Department, Sajad Naqeeb, stated that the bridge does not fall under their jurisdiction. Public Relations Officer (PRO) Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) Idrees Hakim, however, said that the Lakes Conservation and Management Authority (LCMA) is responsible for the bridge and the surrounding Dal Lake area.

Residents fear that without immediate intervention, the bridge may soon become hazardous for both pedestrians and vehicles. They have urged authorities to clarify responsibilities and take prompt action before the historic structure lost to neglect. (RK)