Rain, snow add to commuters’ woes

Our correspondent

Srinagar, March 3

After the last year’s floods took a heavy toll on the road infrastructure in the city, the recent rain and snow has compounded the problems of commuters.

Most of the city streets are riddled with potholes as the authorities concerned have failed to repair and macadamize the roads in the aftermath of the unprecedented floods.

“The rain and snow since the last few days have exposed the lack of attention towards roads in Srinagar. The roads are filled with potholes making commuting a difficult experience. The situation has gone bad to worse. The floods had badly affected the road network in the city and with the government not taking any major repair works the situation has further deteriorated,” said Bashir Bhat, a Srinagar resident.

The residents said bumpy and potholed roads pose a great risk and the authorities should take note immediate note of the situation.

“No major repair works have been carried out on these roads since the floods hit Srinagar. Vehicles generally get stuck in the potholes increasing the threat of accidents. The government must repair all the roads before any eventuality,” said Jawahara Begum.

The potholes in roads are also leading to traffic gridlocks, adding to the woes of locals. “The condition of city roads is pathetic. It is really difficult to negotiate such roads. It also leads to long traffic jams,” said Moumin Dar, a local bus driver.

Due to incessant rain, major roads including the Exhibition Crossing, Solina, Rawalpora, Tengpora, Hyderpora, Rangreth Humhama, Lal Ded Crossing and Sonwar have developed potholes affecting smooth flow of vehicles.

The road from Qamerwari to Dalgate, Lal Chowk, Batamaloo, Jawhar Nagar and Lasjan also need immediate repairs.