Double-decker buses cause traffic jams on Boulevard Road

Srinagar, Nov 18: Commuters have complained of frequent traffic jams on the Boulevard Road mainly due to the plying of double-decker buses on the narrow road.

Double-decker buses have been introduced for sightseeing from Boulevard to Hazratbal. “These double-decker buses are huge and narrow Boulevard Road is already overburdened by heavy traffic influx. The locals who commute along the stretch face immense problems due to plying of double-decker buses,” said Zaid Bhat, a commuter.

The commuters who commute to areas like Brane, Nishat, Ishber, Shalimar, Harwan, and adjoining areas said that they are facing huge inconvenience due to the plying of double-decker buses.

“The Boulevard stretch is a hub of tourism. There are hundreds of tourist cabs and other vehicles that operate on this road. The road is heavily burdened. Slow movement of a number of double-decker buses hinders smooth vehicular movement. Authorities should not allow huge vehicles like double-deckers to ply on narrow roads. This poses a risk of accidents to commuters. They should find ways to augment the road and only then allow movement of double-deckers,” said Abdul Hamid another commuter.

The commuters said that Smart City buses are already plying on the stretch, which has added to vehicular burden on the road. They said these issues have made the whole Boulevard stretch a major traffic bottleneck.

“The Boulevard Road does not cater only to tourist spots, but there are also dozens of areas that use the road as a main link to the city center. The essential services including the movement of Ambulances are also hit, and that makes the issue more problematic. We hope that authorities will look into the issue of these double-decker buses and address it accordingly,” said Ishfaq Ahmad, a local from Nishat. “Let these double-decker buses move on Bypass and tourist spots which have wider roads,” he added.

A senior official of Traffic police said that he would look into the issue.

“The road has a major influx of local commuters and tourists, and it is always busy. It is natural that heavy vehicles like double-decker buses will hinder the smooth flow of traffic. We are aware of the issue, and we will take the necessary steps to address it,” said the official.