![Stones lined up along the wall on an interior road in Natipora hampering smooth movement. -Excelsior/Shakeel Stones lined up along the wall on an interior road in Natipora hampering smooth movement. -Excelsior/Shakeel](https://cdndailyexcelsior.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Page3-6.jpg)
Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Aug 1: The unregulated speed breakers and road blockages on inner roads have become a matter of concern for both motorists and pedestrians in various parts of the city. These unauthorized road obstacles are impeding the smooth flow of traffic, leading to potential hazards and inconvenience for commuters.
Residents voiced their frustration over the rampant emergence of unnecessary speed breakers across different parts of the city. “The frequency of speed breakers has increased without any proper planning or authorization, causing unnecessary delays during our daily commute,” said Gulzar Ahmad, a resident of Batamaloo.
Motorists have reported that these speed breakers, often built without adhering to standard guidelines, are posing a risk to the safety of vehicles and passengers. “Many of these speed breakers are too high and steep, causing damage to our vehicles’ undercarriages and suspension systems,” explained Riyaz Ahmad, another resident from Chanapora.
Residents of Omar Abad, Zainakote said that some people have placed stones along their boundary walls on the roadside leading to squeezing of already narrow roads. “We have time and again raised the issue with the SMC officials of the area but to no avail. We want those people who cause obstructions on the road to be penalised,” said Tariq Ahmad, resident of Omar Abad.
Furthermore, citizens have noticed that in several locations, people have placed stones near their boundary walls, encroaching on the road space and causing further obstructions to traffic flow. This unauthorized encroachment, they said, is becoming a significant issue for pedestrians, who are left with limited space to navigate safely.
“Pedestrians are forced to walk almost in the middle of the road due to these blockages, putting them at risk of accidents,” expressed Ghulam Muhammad, a resident. “It’s high time the authorities take action to address this problem before any unfortunate incidents occur,” he added.
In response to the growing concerns, Commissioner of Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), Ather Amir, informed Excelsior that a general appeal has already been issued urging the public not to resort to actions that impede road movement. “In this regard, the necessary directions will be passed to the Ward Officers to ensure compliance,” he said.