Pedestrian bridge in Lahore poses a threat to locals

A pedestrian bridge on Jail road, near Roznama Pakistan Speedo stop, has been left in dilapidated condition over the past seven months, raising safety concern for public. With the passage of time, the condition of bridge continue to deteriorate, posing a significant threat to the local pedestrians.

Traffic Engineering and Transport Planning Agency (TEPA), a subsidiary of Lahore Development Authority (LDA), takes prides for its infrastructure projects across the city. However, the neglect of the maintenance of these projects, such as this pedestrian bridge, has raised serious concerns.

Jail road was always a major thoroughfare in Lahore. In 2015, LDA has undertook a signal free project from Jail Road to Liberty Roundabout, further increasing the flow of traffic along this route. TEPA neglect on the maintenance of this bridge, a sole crossing point, has forced for students and locals to take unnecessary risks.

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Bilal, a student from Institute of Public health (IPH) told The Northern Post, “I have to cross this busy road daily with my friends due to the deplorable condition of the bridge. We can’t even jump over the broken part safely because of the rust.” He added, :A few days ago we witnessed an accident of a boy, crossing the road. Now we are terrified to cross this road.”

Another student Shahzaib highlighted the issue, saying, “There is no traffic signal near this section of road that’s why this road is always full of traffic. The bridge’s poor condition leaves us with no choice but to risk crossing the road.”

Both students, Bilal and Shahzaib, requested the government to take proper action for bridge’s repair, and ensure the safety of pedestrians. Shahzaib while criticizing the government said, “Punjab government has built different infrastructure across Lahore, but they fail to focus on its upkeep and usability. They gain public support during election campaigns, but once elected, they forget to maintain these facilities. Due to this misconduct of Government, people like us suffer the most.”

The residents and students of the area are calling on the government to ensure the maintenance of the pedestrian bridge, allowing them to cross this busy road safely without risking their lives.