Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, May 19: A one-kilometer stretch of the old National Highway from Panthachowk to Sampora on the outskirts of Srinagar has become a commuter’s nightmare, with locals and motorists expressing strong resentment over the Government’s failure to repair the road for the past six months.
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The stretch, which was dug up during winter to lay drainage pipes for a nearby residential colony, remains severely damaged. It is riddled with potholes and slushy patches, making vehicular movement dangerous. “This road has been in a deplorable condition ever since the drainage work started six months ago,” said Mohammad Amir, a local resident. He added that despite multiple complaints, no repairs have been carried out. “It is causing daily suffering to commuters,” he said.
Residents blamed poor planning and the timing of the drainage project. “Who approves drainage work in the middle of winter?” asked one commuter. He added, “They should have considered the weather and public inconvenience. One lane was completely blocked, while the other was covered in mud.”
In a tragic incident linked to the poor road condition, a local resident said his son died in an accident caused by the blocked lane. “My son was overtaking a vehicle when a truck came from the wrong side due to the obstruction. It led to a head-on collision, and he died on the spot,” he said, breaking down in tears.
Drivers said the road damages their vehicles and questioned the government’s development claims. “This stretch is part of a highway, yet it looks like a neglected village road. Who will pay for our vehicle repairs?” asked another motorist.
Health concerns have also emerged. “This road is especially painful for patients with orthopedic conditions. Even a healthy person struggles with the bumpy ride – for patients, it is a disaster,”another commuter said.
When contacted, Chief Engineer of the Roads and Buildings Department Sajad Naqeeb said tenders for the repair work would be issued soon. “The work will be taken up accordingly to alleviate the problems faced by commuters,” he added.
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