Pothole-ridden roads at Malik Sahab, Sgr irk residents

Srinagar, April 25: The residents of the Malik Sahib locality in the Gojwara area of Safakadal are growing increasingly frustrated with the poor condition of the link road, which has become a daily source of inconvenience and safety concern for pedestrians and commuters alike.
The narrow stretch, which connects several residential pockets, is riddled with potholes and uneven patches, making it difficult for both pedestrians and vehicles to navigate. “This road has been in a deplorable condition for years. Despite repeated appeals to local authorities, no one has taken any action,” said Aijaz Ahmad, a local resident who has lived in the area for over 15 years.
Omar Bhat, another local, shared similar frustration: “We have been asking for repairs for so long, but every time we approach the authorities, we are met with empty promises. It’s frustrating to see the situation worsen every day while nothing is being done.”
The condition of the road worsens during rains, as potholes fill with water, turning the stretch into a dangerous and often impassable mess. “People have to walk through waterlogged areas or navigate around deep holes during heavy rain. It’s not just an inconvenience; it’s a safety issue,” said Sajad Lone, another concerned resident.
The road, frequently used by people going to nearby mosques, poses significant challenges, especially for the elderly, who struggle to navigate the stretch during early morning and late evening prayers. “People, especially the elderly, face difficulty walking to mosques for Fajr prayers. The situation worsens when there’s a power outage and the road is left in darkness,” said Zahid Malik, a local resident. Several residents also pointed out that the poor road conditions are contributing to severe traffic congestion in the area. “With vehicles slowing down to avoid the potholes, the entire area becomes congested. This only adds to the already strained traffic situation in Gojwara,” said Ahsan Mir, another local. Responding to these concerns, a senior official from the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), requesting anonymity, assured that the issue would be addressed. “We are aware of the problem, and road repairs will be carried out across the city, including this one, as soon as the weather permits,” the official said.
While the authorities have promised action, residents of Malik Sahib for now continue to face the ongoing challenges posed by the deteriorating road, hoping that timely repairs will bring some relief to their daily lives….