Zero Bridge
Bridge in Jammu and Kashmir, India
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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]
Zero Bridge | |
|---|---|
| |
| Coordinates | 34°4′11.23″N 74°49′48″E |
| Carries | Pedestrian pathway |
| Crosses | Jhelum |
| Locale | Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India |
| Followed by | Abdullah Bridge |
| Characteristics | |
| Design | Wooden Arch Bridge |
| Material | Wood |
| Total length | 160 metres (520 ft) |
| Width | 9 metres (30 ft) |
| History | |
| Opened | 1950s |
| Closed | Late 1980s (vehicular traffic) |
| Location | |
 Interactive map of Zero Bridge | |
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
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]