By ARUN PRATAP SINGH
DEHRADUN, 13 Jul: Speaking to Garhwal Post, Agriculture Minister and Narendra Nagar MLA Subodh Uniyal said that the government would make all efforts to save Laxman Jhoola. He added that the government was fully aware of the cultural and historical importance of Laxman Jhoola and keeping this in view, it would make all efforts to save the historical suspension bridge. Uniyal said that a second opinion of experts would be sought in respect of the actual position of the Jhoola and in view of the need of locals and the tourists, limited movement of people would be allowed from the bridge and for this the bridge would soon be barricaded. He added that the officers concerned had also been directed to prepare a work plan and proposal for construction of a new bridge near the existing bridge. On the other hand, Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat today stated that the bridge had become very dilapidated and keeping in view the upcoming Kanwad Yatra, which would result in a heavy influx of pilgirms, it had been decided to close it down. He said that an alternative bridge would be constructed soon enough. He added that an expert opinion would be taken to see if the existing Laxman Jhoola could be saved as a heritage site! It may be recalled that the suspension bridge is almost 96 years old and got its name after Lord Rama’s brother Laxman who is believed to have crossed the river from here with the help of jute ropes
