Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Aug 9: The roads leading to the revered shrine of Makhdoom Sahib here have been in a state of disrepair for several years, causing immense hardships to commuters and residents alike.
The deteriorating condition of these roads have not only created difficulties for daily travelers but have also raised concerns among local inhabitants.
The stretch from Gojwara to the Makhdoom Sahib shrine has deteriorated significantly, mirroring the condition of the road connecting the shrine from Islamia College.
Adding to the woes, the road leading from Ganjbakhsh Park to the shrine is also riddled with numerous potholes, rendering even pedestrian movement cumbersome.
Tariq Ahmad, a resident of Bachdarwaza situated along the road leading to the shrine from Islamia College, lamented that the road’s deplorable state has persisted for nearly 8 years, causing ongoing hardships.
He noted, “The road is already in a dire condition, exacerbated by a dysfunctional drainage system. Accumulated drain water worsens the walking conditions. Unfortunately, the situation has remained unchanged for several years, despite our continuous appeals to the Government.”
He criticized the authorities for claiming Srinagar’s status as a Smart City while failing to provide its residents with decent roads.
Fayaz Ahmad, a shopkeeper near Bahaodin Chowk, highlighted that all three routes to the shrine – Nowhatta, Ganjbakhsh Park, and Gojwara – are in an equally dismal condition. He expressed that both locals and pilgrims visiting the shrine are grappling with these subpar conditions.
“Due to the shrine’s significance, these roads witness a constant influx of people. The presence of a Ganesh Mandir in the area further compounds the problem, as visitors to the temple, hailing from various parts of the country, are also affected,” he said.
While one of the roads underwent macadamization a few years ago, the residents said, its condition deteriorated within a short span. “For over 3 years now, the road has been in a lamentable state. The elderly residents are experiencing health issues due to the pervasive dust,” residents reported.
Tasleema, another resident, lamented that despite road repairs taking place elsewhere, their grievances have been consistently ignored by the authorities. “We have raised the issue multiple times, but it seems our pleas are falling on deaf ears,” she expressed.
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