KTA seeks removal of dividers at Rambagh, cites trade disruption
Srinagar, Jan 28: A delegation of the Kashmir Trade Alliance (KTA) today called on the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Anshul Garg, to discuss several pressing issues confronting the trading community in Srinagar.
The delegation, led by KTA President Aijaz Shahdhar, expressed gratitude to the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, for issuing directions to make Old Habba Kadal bridge motorable for Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs). The delegation stated that the prolonged closure of the bridge had severely impacted around 400 business establishments, leading to significant disruption of trade and daily commercial activity in the area.
Appreciating the steps taken by the administration, the Kashmir Trade Alliance appealed for expediting the remaining works to make the bridge fully motorable. The delegation stressed that any further delay would continue to adversely affect traders and commuters and urged that the work be completed on a war footing with clearly defined timelines, as the bridge serves as a vital commercial and connectivity link.
During the meeting, the KTA delegation also raised concerns regarding the dividers installed along the stretch from Rambagh to Natipora Chowk. The delegation pointed out that an alternative road from the Bund side has already been created, and therefore there is no pressing requirement for continuous dividers along this stretch. It was stated that the dividers are unnecessarily restricting access to markets, affecting the movement of goods and reducing customer footfall, thereby harming trade. The delegation sought removal or rationalisation of the dividers to restore ease of access while ensuring smooth traffic flow.
The Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, gave a patient hearing to the issues raised and assured the delegation that the concerns of the trading community would be examined sympathetically and appropriate measures taken wherever feasible.
The delegation included Mohd Younis Beigh, Ajaz Bisati, Owais Sofi, Niyaz Khan, Owais Yaqoob, Sajad Din and Sajad Hyder.
The Kashmir Trade Alliance reiterated its commitment to constructive engagement with the administration to help ensure a conducive environment for trade, business continuity and economic stability in Srinagar.
