Sopore, Feb 21: Being the business hub of North Kashmir, Sopore town was once called Chotta London, but due to the official apathy the town is in shambles now.
However, authorities say multiple projects for the restoration of the past glory of this heritage rich town are in progress.
Locals, while narrating the present scenario of the town, told Rising Kashmir, said that Sopore is presently facing a crisis when it comes to basic facilities.
“Dilapidated conditions and congested roads are the biggest problems in the town at present. The roads are the same as they used to be decades ago, however traffic has increased many folds”, locals said, adding that regular traffic mess adds to their vows.
“Once stuck in a traffic jam it can take hours to come out of it at places like Hathishah and Bandipora road (near Chinkipora)”, they added.
Drinking water scarcity is witnessed in almost all the colonies of the town, even if some areas are getting drinking water as per schedule, the water looks impure without proper filtration.
The locals say there is a need for various developmental works in the Apple town which includes establishment of district hospital, drug de-addiction centre, upgradation of street lights etc.
While narrating the past Sopore locals say that the place was also famous for three R’s –Raidee, Rabb, Rupyi (carts, mud and money). Though the first two R’s are still abundantly available in the town, the third R has gone down due to many reasons.
This heritage rich town has produced great personalities in the field of Education, Art, Literature, Politics etc. and a number of eminent doctors who are now settled in Srinagar or abroad.
Speaking to Rising Kashmir, President Municipal Council (MC), Sopore Musarat Kar said that they have taken up multiple projects for the restoration of the glorious Sopore town.
“The Apple town may present a different look in coming times as the projects like parks, slaughter house, MC office building, open air gym, entry gates and other developmental projects are in progress,” she said, adding “many projects have already been completed.”
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