Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Dec 3: Residents of Pethkundal in Shalbug area of Ganderbal district today expressed strong resentment over what they describe as an “unacceptable delay” in repairing a damaged stretch of Shallabugh link road.
The road partially caved in on October 9 after the sidewall collapsed, creating a deep gorge and cutting off smooth access to several villages, including Takanwari, Gongugund and Shalbug.
The locals said damaged road has become a serious threat to commuters, especially schoolchildren and the elderly. “This road is vital for schoolchildren, patients, and residents. The collapse has made it unsafe for everyone. We appeal to the administration to restore it immediately before any mishap occurs,” one resident said.
People in the area claim that despite repeated reminders to authorities, no progress has been made on the restoration. “No one has come here. We have received assurances but nothing has been done. If they cannot provide the basic facility of a road, what kind of government is it?”
Residents said that local representatives and officials visited the site on the day of the incident and “assured speedy repairs”, but nearly a month and a half later the site remains unattended. “They came here and promised the road would be repaired quickly, but till now there is no progress,” a resident said.
The Executive Engineer, Roads and Buildings Department Ganderbal, Arif Mohammad, said the department is looking into the matter. “I will visit the site and get back to you. The Executive Engineer of Flood Control has forwarded the estimates to the higher authorities. We will coordinate with Irrigation and Flood Control and try to resolve the issue. We are here to resolve the problems of the people,” he said.
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