Heavy rains, defunct drains inundate Srinagar roads

Srinagar, Apr 15:  Heavy rains coupled with defunct drainage system caused waterlogging of major roads in the summer capital on Monday.

Commuters said that as the dug-up roads dotted with massive potholes were covered with rainwater, it became difficult for them to navigate through the city.

Locals said that scores of commuters had narrow escapes after passing through massive potholes and dug-up roads. The locals said that most of the roads in Downtown areas, including Khanyar, Babademb, Nowhatta were waterlogged. They said that the situation is also the same in uptown areas, including Bemina and Batamaloo.

“Dug-up roads are aiding waterlogging. We are unable to venture out amid ankle-high water on roads. The roads and drainage projects have been going on for a long time, and there is no coordination between different departments. Whenever there is rainfall, people of Srinagar, particularly those in Downtown, face huge issues,” said Bashir Ahmad, a local from Nowhatta.

The residents of Hazratbal's outskirt areas said also complained of waterlogging. They said that the absence of a drainage network resulted in waterlogging in residential areas.

“Our colony was established in the early 1990s, and there is no drainage network. During downpours, we face hardships as the roads in the area are waterlogged. We appeal to authorities to look into the issue and address it accordingly,” a local from Gousia Colony Hazratbal said.

The locals said that the issue also triggered traffic jams across Srinagar areas during peak hours. They said that students and office goers are having a tough time due to the rains.

An official from SMC said that since the rainfall, they have been keeping all the dewatering pumps running to ensure a zero sump level.

“Lal Chowk and adjoining areas are clear from the waterlogging, and in those areas where there is need, we have been pressing dewatering pumps accordingly,” said the official.