Srinagar, June 27: The deteriorating condition of roads leading to the Sher-e-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) in Soura has become a growing source of frustration for commuters and patients, especially those requiring urgent medical care. Despite being one of the Valley’s premier healthcare institutions, the access routes to SKIMS are riddled with deep potholes and broken stretches, making travel a daily struggle for thousands.
Routes passing through areas such as Hawal, Alamgari Bazar, Zoonimar and Soura are particularly affected, with some sections barely passable. Commuters are forced to navigate around large potholes and uneven surfaces, which not only disrupt traffic flow but also increase the risk of accidents. Locals have voiced their anger over the continued neglect of these roads. “These roads were never in good shape, but their condition has sharply declined over time,” said Taha Chishti, a resident.
Moomin Banday, another local, highlighted the emotional toll. “It’s not just a matter of inconvenience. Families rushing their loved ones for treatment are already under stress. These roads only add to their distress.”
The situation becomes especially perilous during rainfall, when water fills the potholes, rendering them nearly invisible. “You can’t tell where the potholes are. I have seen people lose control of their bikes and fall. It’s become risky to even walk or ride through this stretch,” said Burhan Lone of Soura. He added that poor drainage makes matters worse, as rainwater accumulates quickly, turning already damaged roads into pools of muddy water.
Residents argue that the dangerous conditions pose serious risks to life, particularly in emergencies. Ambulances struggle to navigate the pothole-ridden stretches, causing delays in reaching SKIMS. “A few weeks ago, I rushed my wife to the SKIMS Maternity Hospital for delivery. The bumpy ride was extremely uncomfortable for her. For pregnant women, these conditions are unbearable. It added unnecessary anxiety at a time when she needed to remain calm,” said Touseef Ahmed of Batamaloo.
Many believe the situation is the result of years of neglect, with repeated calls for repairs going unheeded. “We have been raising our concerns for years, but nothing has changed,” said Nouman Malik, another resident. “It’s time the authorities take responsibility and fix the issue before it leads to further consequences.” Responding to these concerns, a senior Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) official, requesting anonymity, acknowledged the problem. “We are aware of the issue and are working on a comprehensive plan to address the damaged roads across Srinagar, including those leading to vital facilities like SKIMS. Repair work has been delayed due to weather-related constraints, but we are committed to starting the restoration process at the earliest.” While authorities promise action, for now, commuters and patients continue to endure the worsening roads, hoping for urgent repairs before more lives are put at risk.
