Baramulla, June 22: In a remarkable display of community initiative and concern for public safety, the residents of the Krankshivan colony in north Kashmir’s Sopore town joined hands to undertake the much-needed repairs of a dilapidated stretch of the vital Sopore to Krankhsivan road.
The residents told Rising Kashmir that their efforts are aimed at ensuring smooth vehicular movement and preventing accidents on this critical route.
Despite repeated appeals to the Sopore administration, municipal authority, and the Roads and Buildings (R&B) department, the locals said they found no respite from the persisting problems with the road.
Undeterred by the lack of official action, these residents took it upon themselves to rectify the situation, financing the repairs using their own pocket money.
Abrar Ahmad, a local resident expressed his disappointment, saying that despite their appeals, no meaningful action was taken by the concerned authorities.
While emphasizing the significance of the road, Abrar said it connects Sopore to Wagub and Srinagar, making it a crucial transportation route. “The pothole-ridden road had led to numerous accidents, causing distress and inconvenience to both commuters and local residents,” he said.
Frustrated with the lack of progress and tired of waiting for official intervention, the locals rallied together and took matters into their own hands.
Another local Ghulam Hassan lamented the “misplaced priorities of the authorities, who often touted developments such as smart meters while neglecting basic infrastructure needs”.
“Such commendable efforts to repair the road have not only displayed our unity and determination but have also served as a powerful reminder of the strength of community spirit,” said a local wishing not to be named.
“By pooling their resources and investing their own money, we not only addressed the immediate safety concerns but also sent a strong message to the authorities regarding their shared expectations for essential infrastructure,” he added.
The locals urged the authorities to prioritize the repair and maintenance of critical roads and ensure the safety and convenience of all those who rely on them.