Srinagar roads in shambles

Srinagar, Mar 16: The failure of authorities to repair dilapidated roads in Srinagar is causing immense inconvenience to commuters.

In the absence of repairs, most of the roads in Srinagar have developed potholes, hampering vehicular movement. The service roads near the under-construction flyover at Sanat Nagar are dotted with potholes. At many places, the service roads have caved in, causing damage to vehicles and posing a risk of accidents.

“The service roads near Sanat Nagar flyover cater to heavy traffic flow, including heavy vehicles. Why are authorities sitting on repairs of this vital route? The potholes pose risk of accidents,” said Mehraj-ud-din, a commuter, while pointing towards the dilapidated road stretch at Sanat Nagar.

The entire road stretch at Batamaloo has been damaged as a result of vehicles moving slowly, causing traffic jams. Even potholes have been developed at busy Maulana Azad Road, hampering vehicular movement.

“It is ironical that authorities have failed to undertake repairs of damaged roads. Commuters have been left to fend for themselves,” said Abdul Hamid, a commuter.

At many places in Srinagar, e-rickshaws turned turtle after passing through dilapidated roads. “I  wonder if Srinagar can be called a Smart City. Roads are vital and must be repaired on a priority," said social activist MM Shuja. "Roads form one of the indicators of development. Dilapidated roads, besides causing inconvenience to commuters, give a bad impression to tourists about Srinagar. Hope authorities will wake up from slumber," he added.

Due to uneven and potholes, pedestrians too face inconvenience. “Roads are in bad condition. This poses a risk of injuries to pedestrians. Government needs to look into the condition of roads and direct concerned departments to undertake repairs,” said Abdul Rashid, a commuter.