Udhampur, April 19 -- The education and safety of thousands of students in Udhampur district remain at risk after a key motorable bridge over the Tawi River was washed away in August 2025, forcing children from more than 10 panchayats to cross the dangerous Toldi Nallah on foot to reach their schools.

The collapsed bridge, located in the Bant village area of Samroli, had served as a crucial connectivity link for residents of nearly 20 villages. Since its destruction due to heavy rainfall and flash floods, schoolchildren--especially young girls and primary students--have been navigating slippery rocks and strong currents daily, turning their routine commute into a life-threatening challenge. For these children, the pursuit of an education...