Udhampur, May 22: District authorities have imposed an immediate ban on heavy vehicles over the Salmey Bridge/Aqueduct, citing serious safety concerns and risk to the structure.
An order issued by Additional District Magistrate Dr. Umesh Shan under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, followed reports from the Executive Engineer, Civil Maintenance Division, PDC Udhampur that heavy dumpers and overloaded vehicles continued to use the bridge despite warnings. Officials said such traffic could further damage the bridge and endanger lives and property.
The order noted earlier restrictions imposed in 2022 and a temporary suspension of vehicular movement from January 26–28, 2024, for safety reasons. Enforcement has been assigned to SSP Udhampur, SSP Traffic NH Ramban, the Assistant Regional Transport Officer, the District Mineral Officer and concerned magistrates.
The ban is in effect immediately and will remain until further notice.
