KL Report
SRINAGAR
Incessant rains in most areas and heavy snowfall in upper reaches threw normal life out of gear across Kashmir region on Tuesday. Reports of Snowfall were also received from various hilly areas including Gulamarg while Sadna, Kirun and Machil roads were reportedly closed in view of snowfall and water-logging.
Accumulated rain water in Srinagar areas resulted in traffic jams and many localities were thrown out of bounds for pedestrians. People accused Srinagar Municipality of being negligent over the issue as no immediate relief was provided by operating government machinery to drain out the accumulated water.
Inefficient drainage system in the heart of summer capital is proving to be a reason of annoyance for commuters including tourists and shopkeepers. Following the rainfall on Tuesday, the roads and drains in Lal Chowk were inundated while many old city localities were also swamped with drain water pouring in from leakages in the system.
Many link roads near business establishments and bus stops in Lal Chowk were seen inundated on Wednesday morning that irked commuters and travelers who had to wade through the water.
Roads through City’s commercial hub besides Residency Road and Regal Chowk were water-logged after few hours of rain. Water-logging on roads was also witnessed in Sarai Bala, Hazuri Bagh Magarmal Bagh areas. Traffic Jams were witnessed across city areas putting people to discomfort.
“Srinagar city does not have conventional rainwater sewers. However, several pump stations and dewatering mobile pumps pressed into use by Srinagar Municipal Corporation have proved to be insufficient in addressing the water logging problems” alleged locals.
Local shopkeepers accused SMC of being indifferent towards repairing drains and pavements at Lal Chowk.
