Closing Rishikesh’s Iconic “Lakshman Jhula” After 90 years As It Is Unsafe

Visiting Rishikesh was one of the fonder memories of my childhood. However sadly, reports confirm that Lakshman Jhula, built across Ganga river has closed after 90 years. The decision for closing Lakshman Jhula is for safety reasons. 

Closing Lakshman Jhula:-

The Uttarakhand Government decided to close Rishikesh’s fame, Lakshman Jhula after a PWD report. The report, however, says that Jhula was in distressed conditions. The closing of 96-year-old Lakshman Jhula has bought a great disappointment for tourists and local residents. The decision to close Jhula is to prevent mishaps.

However, the closing of Jhula will cause havoc in the city since the Kanwar Yatra is around the corner. It will be a big challenge for the local authorities to control the movement of pilgrims during the Kanwar Yatra which begins on 17th July.

PWD Has Its Take On The Closure:-

First, the construction of the Jhula provided relief to many. Especially to the residents of  Tehri Garhwal and Pauri Garhwal. Since the closure of the 136-meter long bridge is announced, the residents had to walk for another 2 Km to Ram Jhula to cross Ganga river. The PWD Official said,

“The bridge was built 96 years ago because people wanted to commute between the two districts and visit religious places located around there.” 

In addition to this, the official also stated that it was the longest hanging suspension bridge in the state. Our mythology has played an important part due to which it gained worldwide recognition.

“It is widely believed that Laxman, the younger brother of Lord Rama, had crossed river Ganga from the same route now where the bridge stands majestically.”

Due to the growing number of visitors, the temples, ashrams, hotels, and markets have sprung up. Closing Lakshman Jhula has deeply affected the surroundings.

Various Bollywood songs shooting has been done on this bridge and in many documentaries, this bridge was found.

Conclusion:-

To summarize, Rishikesh’s fame Laxman Jhula has gained our love but yet it is dangerous for us. The closure might have disappointed everyone. But these things are necessary.

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