UDHAMPUR, July 5 -- A heart-touching yet deeply concerning incident from Banti village in Udhampur has once again highlighted the hardships faced by thousands of residents after the Banti Bridge over the Tawi River was washed away. During the monsoon season, a groom had to be carried across the river in a traditional palanquin (palki) to reach his bride's home, as there was no bridge to ensure safe passage.
The situation could have turned fatal. Had the water level in the Tawi River risen suddenly due to heavy rainfall, the groom and the entire wedding procession could have been swept away. What should have been a joyous occasion instead became a stark reminder of the dangers local people face every day.
The Banti Bridge was washed away d...