Encroachment of Habba Kadal bridge hits pedestrian, vehicular movement

Srinagar, Nov 12: Encroachment of Habba Kadal bridge by street vendors has severely affected pedestrian and vehicular movement in the area.

In absence of regulation by authorities, both sides of the bridge have been occupied by the vendors causing traffic jams on the busy route.

The commuters said that the bridge is dotted by carts and stalls setup by vendors. “This bridge has become a nightmare for the commuters. The whole stretch is occupied by vendors… it has become difficult to drive on the bridge” said Ajaz Ahmad, a commuter.

The commuters said that the bridge is occupied by vendors selling chicken, snacks, clothes, fruits, vegetable,s and other household items. “There is hardly any space for pedestrians to walk. As a result, they are forced to walk on road posing risk of accidents,” said Abdul Hamid a commuter.;

“It is ironic that SMC is sitting on the serious issue. Authorities should rather provide separate vending zones and remove encroachments from roads, footpaths, and bridges,” said Amir Bhat, a pedestrian.

In addition to the vendor issues, the bridge has been turned into a roadside parking spot, which has worsened the problem. Locals said that the bridge is occupied by load carriers, private cars, and other vehicles.

“As the bridge has been turned into an illegal vending zone, commuters face tough time to navigate through it. During peak hours, we are stuck in chronic traffic jams, and it is a nuisance for everyone,” said another commuter

An official of SMC said that they are conducting anti-encroachment drives and will intensify them to address the issue.

“The vendors don’t cooperate, which makes regulation difficult. We have carried out several drives in the area, and sometimes, we seek help from the police. We will ensure more anti-encroachment drives in the area so that commuters and pedestrians don’t suffer,”  the official added.