Srinagar, Jan 16: The Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) has completed all preparations for snow clearance in the city, ensuring effective management of snowfall and water drainage issues during the winter season.
The Commissioner of SMC, Dr Owais Ahmad, stated that the city’s snow clearance efforts are well coordinated, with over 5,000 lanes manually cleared by a dedicated workforce. The SMC has deployed sufficient manpower to ensure the process runs smoothly. Additionally, the corporation handles the 1,500 km of roadways mechanically, using a variety of machinery, including modified tractors, 4×4 vehicles, JCBs, and loaders.
This year, a ward-wise team system has been introduced. Each ward is overseen by a ward officer, with the concerned junior engineer (JE) also taking charge to ensure effective snow clearance. The SMC has established a clear monitoring mechanism for both manual and mechanical snow clearance, guaranteeing that progress is tracked efficiently.
In addition to snow removal, SMC has taken steps to address water accumulation issues. More than adequate water pumps are deployed across the city to manage water inundation. The machinery and water pumping stations are equipped with GPS tracking systems, allowing the control room to monitor real-time progress and deploy resources as needed, the Commissioner said.
The SMC’s 24×7 control room is fully operational and ready to respond to any grievances or emergencies. Citizens can easily reach out for assistance via helpline numbers or through social media platforms. The commissioner assured that complaints would be handled promptly, ensuring the safety and convenience of residents during the winter months.
With these comprehensive measures, SMC aims to keep the city’s roads clear of snow and minimize disruptions caused by water accumulation, ensuring smooth daily life during the harsh winter conditions.