Under the auspices of the Rashtriya Abhishkar Abhiyan (RAA) for Secondary/Senior Secondary Levels, Academic Year 2023-24, sponsored by SAMAGRA SHIKSHA Jammu and Kashmir, an enriching study trip was organized. This endeavor, meticulously coordinated by the esteemed Chief Education Officer of Kathua, and facilitated by the Principal of Government HSS Nagri Parole in collaboration with zonal education officer kathua, saw the participation of secondary/senior secondary schools including HSS Nagri Parole, GHS Nagri Parole, and HS Kokhyal, all falling under the jurisdiction of Complex HSS Nagri Parole.
A hundred enthusiastic students, accompanied by dedicated escort teachers from these institutions, embarked on a memorable journey to witness the marvel of engineering and connectivity, the “Atal Setu Basholi.” Situated 60 kilometers away from Pathankot, this 592-meter-long cable-stayed bridge spanning the Ravi River holds historical significance, having been commissioned to the nation on 24th December 2015 by the former Defence Minister, Manohar Parrikkar.
This architectural gem, designed by Canadian consultants McElhanney Consulting Services Ltd., stands as a testament to modern engineering prowess, approved by none other than IIT New Delhi. The foundation stone, laid in May 2011 by UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, culminated in a structure named after the visionary former Prime Minister, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, symbolizing connectivity and progress.
The journey commenced promptly at 8:00 AM, with students boarding their designated buses from their respective schools flagged off by prominent vetran retired teacher and SMDC member Sh M L BEHAL. A brief stopover at Dream Park Kathua at 8:20 AM provided a refreshing interlude, where students indulged in a light breakfast of tea and Breadpakora. Energized, they proceeded to their destination, arriving at 11:00 AM.
Under the attentive guidance of their escort teachers, students absorbed the historical and strategic significance of the Atal Setu, documenting their observations in diaries provided for the purpose. A sumptuous lunch, graciously provided by J&K Samagra Shiksha, comprising rice, puri, fish paneer, rajma, mixed vegetables, salad, sweet dish, and packaged water bottles, rejuvenated the young minds at PURTHU.
As the day progressed, the return journey commenced, punctuated by a thoughtful gesture of serving fruits (banana and orange) to the students, ensuring their sustenance and well-being. The visit culminated as the buses arrived back at their respective schools around 5:00 PM, leaving the students enriched and grateful for the insightful experience.
Heartfelt gratitude is extended to the Project Director, SAMAGRA SHIKSHA Jammu and Kashmir, for orchestrating this educational excursion, which not only broadened horizons but also instilled a sense of pride and appreciation for our nation’s achievements in infrastructure and connectivity.
