SRINAGAR: Kashmir Valley remains gripped by harsh winter conditions for more than five months every year. From November to January, heavy snowfall significantly damages road infrastructure across the region.
Despite the government announcing large-scale road development projects, including highway works worth approximately Rs 1.22 lakh crore in Jammu and Kashmir, many district roads continue to remain in a poor condition.
In Srinagar, a local resident, Abbas Ali, described the roads as “death traps.” He travels daily on a two-wheeler to Rangreth for work. “I have been riding a two-wheeler for the past several years. Roads were never in good condition; potholes have always been part of Kashmir’s roads. Although macadamisation was carried out on a large scale last year, if you travel across Srinagar today, you will find roads that can cause fatal accidents,” he said.
Across several districts of the Valley, residents have been regularly sharing images and videos of deteriorating road conditions on social media. A user recently posted on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “Why do Srinagar roads feel like they have been bombed by the IRGC (Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps)?”
Why Srinagar Roads roads feel like they have been bombed by IRGC
— Dr Jibran B (@doctorbonesaw_) March 31, 2026
During the rainy season, these roads turn into waterlogged traps, posing serious risks to life and property. Many people avoid walking during such conditions to prevent accidents. “During the rainy season, I largely avoid going to the mosque. Our colony has been awaiting macadamisation for several years despite repeated requests to the authorities. I once had to return midway and missed prayers because my clothes got soiled,” said Ahmad, a resident of Srinagar’s Ellahi Bagh area.
“I started driving two years ago, and I did not have any kind of back issues or neck problems before that,” said Ateeb, currently studying at one of Srinagar’s colleges. “Due to the lack of public transport, I had to buy a two-wheeler. Due to the miserable condition of roads, I have lately been suffering from massive lower back and neck pain and have been advised by doctors to wear a collar and avoid driving for a while,” he added.
Waterlogging after even a few hours of rain is a common sight across the Valley. Students, office-goers, street vendors, and shopkeepers are all affected. Frequent jolts and uneven surfaces damage vehicles and also impact people’s health.
Newly purchased vehicles often deteriorate quickly, adding to the financial burden of residents. According to Imtiyaz, a local car mechanic, the poor road conditions have led to increased repair costs. “People often wonder whether owning a personal vehicle is the right choice,” he said.
“Public transport in Kashmir is not well developed, so people are forced to buy their own vehicles. However, these poor road conditions, instead of solving problems, create new stress. Roads need to be fully macadamised and maintained throughout the year,” he added while repairing a damaged vehicle.
Medical experts also point to rising health concerns linked to road conditions. The human spine can absorb only limited shocks, but repeated jolts and vibrations are increasingly causing lower back problems among residents. Those already suffering from conditions such as herniated discs or sciatica are at greater risk.
An orthopaedic specialist noted a recent rise in spine-related cases across the Valley. “There has been an increase in patients with lower back issues, including cervical, thoracic, and lumbar disc problems. While factors like poor posture and heavy lifting contribute, many patients report that their symptoms worsened after frequent exposure to sudden shocks from bad roads,” the doctor said.
