Srinagar, Apr 1: Dilapidated roads and defunct drainage system are taking heavy toll on residents of Hamdania Colony and Syed Mohalla of Bemina on the city outskirts.
Residents said that these areas have been facing persistent issues due to the lack of proper road infrastructure, with no blacktopping and inadequate drainage facilities.
They said during the rainy season, the situation worsens significantly as the roads turn into waterlogged stretches filled with mud and potholes. Residents say that even moderate rainfall leads to severe inundation, making it extremely difficult for pedestrians and vehicles to pass through. The absence of a proper drainage system has further aggravated the problem.
Locals said that recent rainfall over the past few weeks has made daily life increasingly difficult. “The lane gets completely flooded, and moving around becomes a challenge,” said Ishfaq, a resident, highlighting that the issue recurs every time.
They said the dry season brings a different set of problems. With no proper surfacing, the roads become dusty, contributing to respiratory issues, allergies, and infections among residents. The lack of maintenance continues to impact the overall quality of life in the area.
Students and working individuals are among the worst affected, locals said.
“Children are often forced to wear long boots to wade through ankle-deep water while commuting to school, while commuters face difficulties navigating pothole-ridden roads. Two-wheelers and four-wheelers frequently struggle to pass, increasing the risk of accidents and vehicle damage,” another local said.
They said the waterlogging has also begun affecting residential structures, with seepage reported in the walls and lawns of several houses. Residents have repeatedly appealed to the authorities for immediate intervention.
Locals stressed that timely maintenance and proper road construction are essential to prevent such recurring issues.
When contacted, officials assured that necessary steps would be taken. An official from SMC said that “the road repair work that falls under the jurisdiction of the Srinagar Municipal Corporation will be addressed accordingly, as many road projects are in the pipeline.”
