M Haziq Pandit
Srinagar, Sep 06: The poor condition of the main road leading to the Parimpora Fruit Mandi in Srinagar continues to be a source of growing frustration, with both residents and commuters expressing concerns over its dilapidated state. Locals say the road, which has been in a deplorable condition for years, is riddled with potholes, deep ditches, and craters, making it increasingly difficult and unsafe to navigate.
The Parimpora Fruit Mandi, established in 1982 and spread over 320 kanals, is one of the largest wholesale fruit markets in the region. It is also home to various other business outlets, a transport yard, and several automobile workshops. Despite its importance as a key commercial hub, the road has largely been neglected, causing daily hardships for thousands of commuters who rely on it.
Locals say that the road’s deteriorating condition has become a serious concern, especially with the heavy traffic it handles. Saad Makhdoomi, a local resident, highlighted that the road’s poor state has made it dangerous for both motorists and pedestrians. “With heavy trucks and buses passing through every day, it’s only a matter of time before a serious accident occurs. The road is already treacherous as it is,” he added.
Ayaan Wani, a daily commuter and two-wheeler owner, shared similar concerns, describing riding through the stretch as a nightmare. “The craters are so deep that two-wheelers can easily lose balance. I have had a couple of close calls myself. It feels like the authorities have abandoned this road completely,” he said.
Local traders and transport operators echoed these concerns, stressing that the poor condition of the road is also affecting their businesses. Kamran Malik, a local trader, said, “This mandi is the backbone of Kashmir’s fruit trade, but the road is in shambles. Trucks carrying fresh produce often get stuck in the craters, making it difficult to move them and affecting timely supply to markets.”
Rizwan Dar, a load carrier operator, added, “This area is a vital route, with goods being shipped in and out every day. However, the damaged road has badly affected smooth transportation, often leading to accidents. For operators like me, who drive auto-rickshaws and other small commercial vehicles, it’s extremely risky. There is a constant fear of skidding, overturning, and meeting with an accident.”
In addition to safety concerns, residents pointed out that the road’s poor condition has worsened traffic congestion and created hygiene issues. Dust clouds rise from the broken surface during summer, while waterlogging during rains makes the stretch almost impassable. “When it rains, the road gets completely flooded, and moving through it becomes impossible. Vehicles often slow down or halt abruptly to avoid the ditches, causing long traffic jams,” said Adnan Qureshi, a local resident.
Despite repeated assurances from the government, locals allege that necessary repairs and macadamisation of the road have not been carried out. “Every year, we are promised that the road will be repaired, but nothing has been done. The increasing traffic pressure only worsens the situation,” said Arshad Khanday, another local resident. In response to these concerns, a senior Roads and Buildings (R&B) official, requesting anonymity, acknowledged the issue but assured that efforts are underway to address it. “We understand the concerns of the locals and have already invited tenders for the repairs and macadamisation of the road. Once the tenders are approved, we will prioritize the work and ensure that it begins promptly,” the official said.
