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Impact of Heavy Rainfall in Chamba

Subhash Mahajan
Chamba

Continuous heavy rainfall in Chamba district has led to significant landslides, disrupting everyday life and halting traffic on several major roads. One of the most affected locations is Sheetla, where the rising waters of the Ravi River have caused extensive damage to the region's historic suspension bridge, which has long been a vital connection for the community.

The Sheetla Bridge, an old iron-rope suspension structure, remains crucial for hundreds of residents despite the presence of a newer flyover nearby. For those commuting to Mangla, Sheetla, and Mai Ka Bagh, this traditional bridge is an essential part of their daily journeys and livelihoods.

Local merchants report that the bridge facilitates small-scale commerce by allowing foot traffic that supports their businesses. However, with one of its protective walls already down and its iron cables under strain, there are growing concerns that the bridge could collapse, threatening public safety and impacting education and trade in the area.

Community members express a strong emotional and cultural bond with the bridge, viewing it as more than just a physical structure. “It’s part of our memories, our daily rhythm,” remarked a local resident. Some even suggest that the old bridge helps protect the new flyover from the river's strong currents.

As the risk of collapse increases, residents are calling on authorities to act swiftly to repair and strengthen the bridge. “If we don’t make timely repairs, we could face a major disaster,” cautioned one local.