Srinagar, Feb 28: Fresh snowfall and intermittent rains that swept through Srinagar on Friday brought much-needed relief from a prolonged dry spell, replenishing water sources and enhancing the city’s winter charm. However, the downpour also resulted in widespread waterlogging, causing severe disruptions for residents and commuters across the city.
The combination of melting snow and rainfall exceeded the capacity of the drainage system, leading to water accumulation in several areas, including Dalgate, Gogji Bagh, Hazratbal, Bemina, Khanyar, and Eidgah. Streets turned into pools of slush and standing water, making it difficult for pedestrians to navigate flooded roads and adding to the congestion caused by slow-moving traffic.
Residents expressed frustration over the poor drainage infrastructure, which they say has led to recurring problems every time it rains or snows. “Walking to the market or even stepping outside becomes difficult,” said Zainab Nazir, a Hazratbal resident. “The roads turn into muddy pools. We desperately need a proper drainage system.”
Elderly residents were particularly affected by the waterlogging. “At my age, walking on slippery roads is risky. A simple errand feels daunting,” said Ghulam Nabi, 70, from Khanyar. “We need proper drainage so we don’t have to fear falling every time it rains.”
Bashir Ahmad, a resident of Dalgate, shared similar concerns. “I’ve lived here all my life, and every winter, we face the same misery. I use a walking stick, but how can I walk when the roads are filled with slush and water?”
Rashid Mir, 60, from Bemina, highlighted the dangers faced by those attending early and late prayers. “It is especially dangerous when we go out for Fajr or Isha Namaz. The streets are dark, slippery, and flooded. Many elderly people in our area struggle, but what choice do we have? We need better drainage and well-lit streets.”
In response to the issue, the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) has deployed dewatering pumps at various locations and intensified efforts to clear clogged drains. “We understand the inconvenience caused by waterlogging and have mobilized teams to address the issue,” said a senior SMC official. “Dewatering pumps have been deployed in affected areas, and our staff is continuously working to clear the drains. While immediate relief measures are in place, we are also evaluating long-term solutions to improve the city’s drainage infrastructure.”
Despite these temporary measures, residents continue to demand permanent solutions. “The drains overflow with just a little rain, and when it snows, it’s even worse,” said Shaukat Ali, a resident of Gogji Bagh. “The administration must come up with a long-term drainage strategy.”
While dewatering efforts continue, the persistent waterlogging underscores the urgent need for a sustainable and effective drainage system in Srinagar. Until long-term measures are put in place, residents worry that each spell of rain or snow will bring the same cycle of disruption, leaving them to contend with flooded streets and traffic congestion.
