On April 15, 2025, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah inaugurated the long-awaited Rahmoo Pulwama Bridge, a vital link connecting Pulwama and Budgam districts in Jammu and Kashmir. Spanning the Romshi Nallah, the bridge restores a critical route damaged in the 2014 floods, promising enhanced accessibility for numerous villages. Locals expressed gratitude for the completion of this decade-long project, which faced multiple delays but now stands as a symbol of regional progress.
The bridge facilitates smoother transportation for residents, particularly those in rural areas like Pakharpora and Charar-i-Sharief, who rely heavily on agriculture, especially apple crops. By connecting communities to markets and essential services, it is expected to stimulate economic activity and improve quality of life. The Roads and Bridges Department, funded under the Jhelum and Tawi Flood Recovery Project, spearheaded the construction, overcoming logistical challenges to deliver this infrastructure milestone.
The inauguration marks a step toward better integration of Pulwama and Budgam, fostering social and economic ties. Community leaders hailed the bridge as a lifeline, with some noting its proximity to religious shrines, enhancing access for pilgrims. However, locals also urged sustained investment in road networks to complement the bridge’s impact. The event underscores the government’s focus on rebuilding and connecting Kashmir’s hinterlands, with Abdullah’s presence signaling commitment to grassroots development.