Bridge to future: Bhuntar finally crosses over decades of delay

After nearly three decades of temporary fixes, administrative hurdles and shifting responsibilities, Bhuntar has finally unveiled its long-overdue permanent concrete bridge. Replacing the ageing Bailey bridge installed in 1995, this robust new structure marks a transformative moment for the region—bringing long-awaited relief to residents of the Parbati and Garsa valleys.

The journey to this milestone has been long and often frustrating. The original British-era steel truss bridge was partially destroyed when floodwaters eroded its foundation. In response, authorities hastily erected a Bailey bridge as a stopgap measure. Though meant to be temporary, it became a vital artery for thousands—used daily by farmers transporting produce to the Bhuntar Marketing Yard, as well as students, traders and patients headed to schools and hospitals.

Over time, the Bailey bridge deteriorated, its maintenance needs growing ever more frequent. A major incident in 2008—when an overloaded truck caused a structural collapse—highlighted just how overstretched the bridge had become. Yet, despite repeated calls for a permanent solution, progress was bogged down by bureaucratic red tape and shifting jurisdiction between the Public Works Department (PWD) and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).

The confusion only deepened with the development of the Jia-to-Ramshila national highway, which bypassed Bhuntar entirely, causing both agencies to sidestep responsibility for the bridge’s funding and execution. Multiple Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) were drafted but went nowhere.

It took persistent public pressure and a renewed political push to finally break the deadlock. Strong local advocacy and renewed administrative will brought the project back to life, culminating in the construction of the new bridge.

This week, PWD engineers successfully completed load testing, simulating real-world stress conditions to ensure safety. With all checks cleared, the official inauguration is scheduled for July 27, where Kullu MLA Sunder Singh Thakur will dedicate the bridge to the public.

The announcement has been met with widespread relief and hope. “It’s not just a bridge—it’s a lifeline,” said a farmer from Garsa valley. Residents expect smoother travel, reduced vehicle maintenance costs, and more reliable access to essential services.

More than just concrete and steel, the new Bhuntar bridge is a symbol of progress — a clear sign that with perseverance, community voices can turn stalled dreams into reality.