Zero Bridge

For the 2008 Kashmiri drama film, see Zero Bridge (film).

Zero Bridge
Coordinates34°4′11.23″N 74°49′48″E / 34.0697861°N 74.83000°E / 34.0697861; 74.83000
CarriesPedestrian pathway
CrossesJhelum
LocaleSrinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India
Followed by
Abdullah Bridge
Characteristics
DesignWooden Arch Bridge
MaterialWood
Total length160 metres (520 ft)
Width9 metres (30 ft)
History
Opened1950s
ClosedLate 1980s (vehicular traffic)
Location
Map
Interactive map of Zero Bridge

Zero Bridge (Urdu pronunciation: [ziːɾoː bɾɪd͡ʒ] ; Kashmiri pronunciation: [zərʲ kəd̪ɨl]) is a wooden arch pedestrian bridge in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India. It spans the Jhelum River, connecting the Sonwar area on the north bank with Rajbagh on the south.[1]

History

Zero Bridge was constructed in the late 1950s under the leadership of then Prime Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Bakshi Ghulam Mohammad. The bridge measured approximately 160 metres in length and 9 metres in width.[1] It was initially used for both vehicular and pedestrian traffic, but vehicular access was restricted by the late 1980s due to its weakening structure.[2]

In 2012, major parts of the bridge were dismantled for safety reasons. The Jammu & Kashmir Projects Construction Corporation Ltd (JKPCC) undertook restoration using traditional materials such as deodar and walnut wood.[3] The restoration, costing around ₹11 crore, avoided the use of concrete to maintain the historical appearance.[4]

Etymology

The name "Zero Bridge" is explained in two ways. One interpretation suggests that, as it is located upstream of Amira Kadal, considered the “first bridge” in Srinagar, it was informally called “Zero” as a precursor.[4]

Another explanation cites a local story of a deaf Kashmiri contractor named “Zorr” (meaning "deaf" in Kashmiri), whose name may have evolved into "Zero" over time.[2]

Architecture and design

During restoration, traditional timber such as deodar and walnut were used. The reconstruction retained the original wooden-arch aesthetic, and modern materials like concrete were intentionally avoided to preserve the bridge’s heritage value.[4][3]

Current status and use

Zero Bridge is no longer open to vehicles and serves solely as a pedestrian bridge.[2] The nearby Abdullah Bridge now handles vehicular traffic. The bridge is used by residents and visitors as a walkway and resting spot along the river.[4]

In 2023, Zero Bridge was included in the Jhelum Riverfront Development Project, with pathways extended to the General Post Office (GPO) area to improve connectivity.[5]

Cultural and civic importance

Zero Bridge is regarded as a heritage structure and remains part of the city's historic identity. In 2011, proposals to demolish the bridge were met with opposition from citizens and conservation groups advocating for preservation.[6][2]

See also

References

  1. ^ a b "Zero Bridge‑ renowned landmarks of city". Brighter Kashmir. 8 July 2024. Retrieved 18 June 2025.
  2. ^ a b c d "Kashmir's iconic Zero Bridge dismantled". NDTV. 4 April 2012. Retrieved 19 July 2025.
  3. ^ a b "Zero Bridge misses deadline, 20% work done so far". Daily Excelsior. 25 April 2013. Retrieved 19 July 2025.
  4. ^ a b c d "Srinagar's heritage site Zero Bridge craves for attention". Rising Kashmir. Retrieved 19 July 2025.
  5. ^ "Jhelum Riverfront: Zero Bridge to GPO inaugurated". Kashmir Reader. 1 November 2023. Retrieved 19 July 2025.
  6. ^ "Demolition creates new bridges". Hindustan Times. 16 September 2011. Retrieved 19 July 2025.

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