DH NEWS SERVICE
Kathua, Sept 14
The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has successfully restored vital connectivity on the Mahanpur-Theyn axis after weeks of disruption caused by a devastating cloudburst that struck the region on 17 August 2025. The incident severely impacted the Kathua district, as the heavy rainfall triggered massive landslides and landslips that completely washed away an existing bridge and damaged an under-construction bridge on the Pedu Nala. This unprecedented natural disaster blocked the only major route linking Ranjit Sagar Dam with Mahanpur, effectively halting all vehicular movement and isolating several villages.
In the days following the disaster, the situation was grim. Large-scale debris accumulation buried the approach roads, while damaged bridge components were scattered across the site, posing significant hazards. The continued spell of inclement weather further complicated the efforts to reach and assess the affected area. Simultaneous blockages on alternate access routes meant that the region remained cut off, hampering relief and rehabilitation operations. For the local population, the loss of this connectivity meant severe difficulties in the movement of essential goods, access to medical facilities, and normal economic activities.
Despite these formidable challenges, the Border Roads Organisation swiftly initiated a mission to restore the road link. The task was undertaken by the 69 Road Construction Company (RCC) of Project Sampark under the overall command of Mr. S.K. Singh, Commander of the 35 Border Roads Task Force (BRTF) based in Udhampur. The restoration plan was executed as a deliberate and methodical high-intensity operation, with the goal of reopening the route for traffic at the earliest possible time.
On-site, the operation was led by Assistant Engineer Mr. Surendran, who, along with his team, worked tirelessly round-the-clock. The first challenge was to clear access to the affected site. This was achieved by mobilizing excavators, earthmovers, and other heavy machinery to carve a path through the debris. Once access was restored, the team undertook the laborious task of removing landslide debris, channelizing the diverted water flow, and rebuilding the damaged infrastructure. Box culverts were constructed to allow controlled water passage, humepipes were installed to improve drainage, and gabion walls were erected to stabilize the surrounding area and protect it against further erosion.
These sustained efforts over several weeks culminated in the restoration of the breached section of road by the evening of 13 September 2025, allowing heavy vehicular traffic to pass safely once again. This development has re-established a crucial link between Bilawar, Kathua, and Dhar, ensuring uninterrupted movement for civilians, administrative teams, and essential supplies.
The Chief Engineer of Project Sampark expressed his deep appreciation for the commitment, professionalism, and resilience demonstrated by Team 69 RCC. He noted that their swift response under such adverse conditions stands as a testament to BRO’s operational excellence and its unwavering commitment to nation-building. This success story highlights the BRO’s critical role in strengthening infrastructure resilience and maintaining connectivity in some of India’s most remote and challenging terrains.
