Dilapidated road irks Malabagh residents
Srinagar, Sep 13: The residents of Malabagh area of Hazratbal have expressed resentment against the failure of authorities to undertake repairs of the dilapidated road in their locality.
The aggrieved said that around a year after the completion of drainage work, the road at Acha Bagh Mala Bagh is in a dilapidated condition. They said the issue has left residents and commuters battling huge potholes, mud, and waterlogging on a daily basis.
Locals said that ever since the drainage work was completed in 2024, the road has remained in shambles and is yet to be restored to its original condition. “The entire stretch has been left dug up. There are huge craters everywhere. During rains, the road turns into a muddy river, which is impossible to navigate,” said Lateef Ahmad, a resident.
According to locals, the dilapidated stretch has become a nightmare for elderly people, school-going children, and even motorists. “Vehicles get stuck frequently, and there is always a fear of skidding and accidents. During emergencies like fire incidents or medical crises, no vehicle can reach inside the lane,” said a commuter.
Parents of school-going children said their wards suffer daily while wading through the muck. “Children slip and fall. Their uniforms get spoiled. They reach school drenched and dirty, and now they are forced to choose alternate routes,” said a parent of school-going kids.
Residents said the situation worsens after sunset. They said that after dark, it becomes even riskier. They said that people trip over potholes, especially the elderly.
“We have reached out to SMC authorities repeatedly, but they keep making excuses,” said another local.
They said the dilapidated road has also raised fears about delayed response during emergencies. “If there is a fire or a medical emergency, no vehicle can navigate the mess. This can cost lives,” another local added.
When contacted, the concerned officials did not respond to calls from this reporter for their comments. Locals have appealed to the administration to restore the road immediately.
