Baramulla, Sep 28: The traders in Sopore area of north Kashmir’s Baramulla district on Thursday took to the streets to protest against the installation of road dividers in the town’s main market.
Assembling at the main chowk, the traders held placards with slogans like ‘Remove Main Market Dividers’ and said the dividers have severely impacted their businesses.
Nayeem Ahmad, a trader said that Sopore’s main market, renowned for its heritage and boasting around 500 shops, has been significantly affected by the installation of the dividers.
These dividers have transformed the market into a road, making it difficult for potential customers to access our shops, he said.
“We open our shops every day, but are witnessing a drastic drop in the number of customers,” the traders said, adding, “Instead of these dividers, the authorities should consider creating a roundabout here, which would facilitate easier access for customers and revitalise business in the market.”
The protesting shopkeepers said the commuters and shoppers coming to Sopore find it challenging to reach their shops due to the dividers. “These road dividers hinder foot traffic and negatively impact our businesses,” they said.
The traders have appealed to the local administration and the Lieutenant Governor to intervene and remove the dividers promptly.
They argue that the removal of these barriers will not only make shopping more convenient for customers but also contribute to the overall improvement of business in the market. “If our demands are not met at the earliest, we will continue our protest,” they said.
