‘Authorities have left us in lurch’

Srinagar, Aug 5: Traders of Shaher-e-Khaas have expressed strong resentment over drainage failure in Downtown and slow pace of Smart City works.

“Srinagar Smart City Ltd dug up roads in Downtown and laid drainage pipes from last several months. However, the roads have not been properly filled up. As a result most of the roads have caved in causing damage to vehicles and injuries to pedestrians,” said the chairman of Shaher-e-Khaas Traders Alliance Nazir Ahmad Shah.

“With dug-up roads, uncovered manholes, abandoned construction material and pipes, most of the areas in Downtown give an ugly look. Besides work on footpaths and roads is going on at a snail’s pace. Authorities have left us in lurch," he said.

Shah said Downtown houses important religious places and historic places. “Shaher-e-Khaas is thronged by tourists from various countries. The dismal condition of roads and footpaths besides the defunct drainage system gives a negative impression to tourists. But there seems to be no urgency on part of SSCL to complete the pending works,” he added.

“We have been urging authorities to expedite works but we have only been receiving assurances. Nothing positive is happening on the ground. The lingering works have led to decline in footfall of customers. We have been incurring huge financial losses due to an inordinate delay in the execution of Smart City works. Now the situation has reached to an alarming stage. Drains have been constructed but without an outlet. As a result during rains, there is waterlogging and water enters shops in several areas,” Shah rued.

“We make a fervent appeal to Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar and CEO SSCL to direct the concerned to expedite works in double shifts so that people and traders can heave a sense of relief,” Shah said.