Construction of high-level bridge at Baltana begins

Decks have been cleared for the construction of a new bridge over the Sukhna Choe in Baltana, Zirakpur. Earthmoving machines de-cluttered the area today, while the traffic was halted at the spot with road users forced to take detours.

According to officials, a high-level bridge, spanning 100m, replacing the causeway in Baltana, would be built here. On May 14, the Punjab Government set in motion the construction of the bridge. A fortnight later, Punjab Local Government Minister Ravjot Singh visited Baltana and met the civic body, Drainage Department and PWD officials, directing them to expedite the construction of the high-level bridge here as soon as possible.

Over the years, the old causeway bridge has been battered by rains, overflowing choe and an apparent lack of maintenance here. Debris, garbage and encroachments nearby have added to the misery of residents living in the vicinity.

Road users on their way to Baltana, Zirakpur and Panchkula have faced inconvenience year after year as the causeway bridge suffers damage in every monsoon.

The choe carries the excess stormwater from Sukhna Lake through Kishangarh, Daria and Makhanmajra and enters Baltana, from where it flows to Bhankharpur and finally enters into the Ghaggar river.

Railings on both sides of the bridge have collapsed repeatedly and potholes as deep as three to four feet are formed due to the erosion and need repair every year.

The bridge is on the only major road connecting Baltana and Panchkula. Office-goers, school buses and businessmen use it daily.