Una, August 1- Although every bridge tells a new story of development, but there are some bridges that go beyond simple construction and become the reason for permanent change in the lives of thousands of people. Sombhadra Bridge located in Haroli of Una district is one such great story of development. Connecting Haroli to Rampur of Una, this 773.30 meter long bridge built at a cost of Rs 33.58 crore on Sombhadra river, locally known as Swan river, has become a symbol of confident development for a population of about 20 thousand.
Haroli's Pradhan Raman Kumari says that this bridge has not only provided relief from the hardships faced during the rainy season but has also made the movement between Haroli and Una easier and has opened a new door of hope and development in the lives of the local people. According to Raman, 'This bridge proves how a wonderful construction can bring about a lasting change in the society.'
Mukesh Agnihotri's vision bore fruit
Anup Agnihotri, Pradhan of Gondpur Jaichand Panchayat of Haroli, says that this bridge is the result of the vision of Deputy Chief Minister and Haroli MLA Mukesh Agnihotri. This bridge is a direct example of how a construction can become an extraordinary achievement. This bridge is not just a structure but it has also become a medium to connect thousands of hearts and remove their sufferings.
Ranjit Rana, Congress Una District President, who hails from Panjawar in Haroli, says that this bridge is a witness to how a leader's progressive thinking can make an ordinary bridge a model of development and trust. Mukesh Agnihotri's vision and dedication has brought about a lasting change in the lives of the people and Sombhadra Setu is a direct example of this. In 2007, he had the foundation stone laid by the then Chief Minister Shri Virbhadra Singh. Shri Agnihotri provided all the funds for this and ensured that it would be completed. The bridge was dedicated to the public in 2018.
The path and the destination too
On the other hand, Sanjeev Kumar of Roda village says that with the construction of Sombhadra bridge, people have got relief from the extra 11 km journey to and fro from Haroli to Una. Earlier the distance from Una to Haroli was about 16 km, for which one had to go through Ghaluwal, with the construction of this bridge this distance has been reduced to just 7 km.
Dharampur's Pradhan Subhadra Chauhan says that whether it is the facility for farmers to take their produce to the market, convenience for working people to reach their workplace or convenience for small traders to transport goods, Sombhadra bridge has opened a new path for everyone. It has given a complete destination to everyone's hopes.
An excellent example of inter-departmental coordination
The bridge became a favorite selfie point
At the same time, Sunita Bagga of Dulahad village, who is also the Block Pradhan of the Women SC Wing, says that this bridge is an excellent example of mutual coordination of various departments in development projects. The Public Works Department has constructed it. The bridge is so beautiful that it has become a favorite selfie point for people.
'Engineering Marvel'
Let us tell you, the bridge has been designed like an 'engineering marvel' keeping in mind modern technology and future needs. Beautiful paths have been made for pedestrians on both sides of this 773.30 meter span bridge, due to which people come here for a walk. Solar lights of modern design make it even more attractive. The Jalshakti Department has made arrangements for drinking water on both ends of the bridge, which is a great facility for the people. For security reasons, the police department has also installed CCTV cameras on the bridge and screens have also been installed to spread awareness about traffic rules. Road reflectors installed on the bridge make the journey comfortable at night.
Sombhadra Bridge is now creating a new definition of development. This bridge is an inspiration for all those who are working towards development and progress.