Residents of Hamdania Colony and Syed Mohalla in Bemina, on the outskirts of Srinagar, are enduring significant hardship due to poorly maintained roads and a dysfunctional drainage system. The persistent issues have rendered daily life challenging for the local population.
Information was available with The Chenab Times indicating that the areas have been grappling with inadequate road infrastructure, characterized by a lack of proper blacktopping and insufficient drainage facilities. These deficiencies exacerbate the living conditions, particularly during periods of rainfall.
During the monsoon season, the situation deteriorates dramatically, transforming roads into waterlogged expanses filled with mud and deep potholes. Even moderate rainfall leads to severe inundation, creating significant obstacles for both pedestrians and vehicular traffic. The absence of an effective drainage network has further compounded the problem, leading to prolonged waterlogging.
Recent rainfall over the past few weeks has intensified the difficulties faced by locals. Residents report that lanes become completely flooded, making movement a substantial challenge. This recurring issue highlights the ongoing neglect of essential civic infrastructure in the locality.
The problems persist even during drier periods. The absence of proper road surfacing results in the accumulation of dust, contributing to respiratory ailments, allergies, and infections among the residents. The lack of consistent maintenance negatively impacts the overall quality of life in the affected neighborhoods.
Students and working individuals are among the most severely affected segments of the population. Children are often compelled to wear long boots to navigate ankle-deep water on their way to school. Commuters face considerable difficulties traversing pothole-ridden roads, and two- and four-wheeled vehicles frequently encounter struggles, increasing the risk of accidents and vehicle damage.
The persistent waterlogging has also begun to affect residential structures. Seepage has been reported in the walls and lawns of several houses, indicating potential structural damage. Residents have repeatedly appealed to the relevant authorities for immediate intervention to address these critical issues.
Local community members emphasized that timely maintenance and proper road construction are crucial to prevent the recurrence of these persistent problems. They are seeking a permanent solution to improve their living conditions.
In response to the concerns, an official from the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) assured that necessary steps would be taken. The official stated that road repair work falling under the jurisdiction of the SMC would be addressed accordingly, noting that numerous road projects are currently in the pipeline and awaiting implementation.
The Chenab Times News Desk