Open manholes at Nigeen pose risk to pedestrians

Srinagar, Sep 6: The residents of Nigeen and its adjoining areas have expressed concern over open manholes in the area saying these are posing risk to their lives.

They said that for over a year, multiple manholes have been left uncovered, turning into a “death trap” for everyone there.

Residents said that the manholes on the sidewalk along Nigeen Club and Nigeen Park have become an issue for them. They said the pedestrians had a narrow escape multiple times due to uncovered manholes.

“Despite highlighting the issue via social media and other platforms, authorities are not doing anything about it. This is a busy area, and hundreds of pedestrians use this sidewalk on a daily basis. We don’t understand when authorities will wake up to the issue. The sidewalk is used by locals, students, and tourists and can end up injuring or killing someone,” Abdul Majeed, a local said.

The locals said that the area is adjacent to Nigeen Club, NIT Srinagar, and Nigeen lake and has a footfall of students and tourists. They said that authorities should immediately fix the open manhole issue to avoid any accidents. “Sometimes there are power shutdowns during evenings, and these manholes become more deadly amid invisibility. Scores of students and tourists use the sidewalk. Some elderly people go on evening walks, and this can lead to a fatal incident if it is not addressed,” said another local.

The locals said there is also a park where families come to spend time with children and the elderly.

“If any child falls in it who is responsible? There is not one but many manholes that are total left uncovered. We appeal to authorities to ensure that the issue is fixed immediately,” said Altaf Ahmad, another local.

A senior official from SMC said that they will ensure to address the issue. “Since the grievance has come to my notice, I will ensure that concerned officers on the ground will assess the issue and address it accordingly,” he said.