Shabroz Malik
Srinagar, May 2, 2024: In what appears to be a recurring problem exacerbated by recent heavy rains, residents of Gousia Colony Baghi Mehtab, Srinagar, have expressed grave concern over the inundation of the road connecting Chanpora Bypass to Baghi Mehtab via Gousia Colony. The situation has reached a critical point, with more than 3 feet of stormwater standing on the road for over a week, prompting distress among the local populace.
Despite the residents’ proactive approach in registering a complaint via the emergency hotline number 100, no remedial action has been initiated by either the ERA (Economic Reconstruction Agency) or the city drainage department. This lack of response has left residents feeling abandoned in their time of need.
Adding to the frustration is the failure of the underground stormwater drain constructed by ERA in 2011, which was meant to mitigate such issues. However, it has proven to be ineffective, exacerbating the flooding problem rather than alleviating it.
In a bid to highlight the severity of the situation, concerned residents have submitted both video footage and photographic evidence depicting the dire conditions of the inundated road. The images showcase the extent of the waterlogging, which has not only made vehicular movement impossible but has also led to water seeping into residential premises, further compounding the residents’ woes.
In light of these pressing concerns, residents are urgently appealing to the Srinagar district administration for immediate intervention. They are calling for the expeditious pumping out of the standing water and the initiation of a thorough inquiry into the reasons behind the failure of the stormwater drain constructed by ERA.
The plight of the residents underscores the need for proactive measures to address infrastructure deficiencies and ensure the safety and well-being of communities, especially during periods of inclement weather. As such, it is imperative that the authorities heed the residents’ calls for assistance and take swift and decisive action to alleviate their suffering.
