Residents of Elahi Bagh aghast over neglected marriage hall

Neglected marriage hall at Elahi Bagh. -Excelsior/Shakeel
Neglected marriage hall at Elahi Bagh. -Excelsior/Shakeel

Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, July 12:The residents of Elahi Bagh voiced their discontent today regarding the deteriorating condition of the only marriage hall in the area, blaming the authorities for their failure to maintain and upkeep the facility. The lack of proper maintenance has led to numerous issues for the residents.

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The marriage hall, located near the grid station, has become a cause for concern among the residents. Latief Ahmad Bisati, a resident, lamented, “The authorities are neglecting our demands for the maintenance of the marriage hall. There is no provision for drinking water, inadequate lighting, and the walls are in a deplorable state. Furthermore, the absence of a functional drainage system adds to our grievances.”
He highlighted the irony of the situation, stating that despite paying Rs 20,000/- for a two-day reservation, the authorities have failed to ensure regular upkeep and maintenance, resulting in the deteriorating condition of the entire building.
“Every month, nearly a dozen marriage ceremonies take place here, generating a significant income of Rs 20,000 per event. However, the authorities seem unwilling to allocate even a fraction of these funds to maintain the hall properly,” residents expressed with disappointment.
Residents also emphasized that once the hall is allocated, individuals are left to make all the necessary arrangements on their own. “We have approached the concerned authorities, but they have shown little interest in addressing our concerns. Even if they start charging extra, we do not have issues with that, but what we seek is the upkeep of the marriage hall.”
The residents further criticized the officials of the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) in the area, claiming that their requests have fallen on deaf ears.
“We urge the authorities to take immediate notice of this matter and ensure the regular maintenance of the marriage hall. The facilities must be improved to provide adequate convenience and comfort to the people,” another resident, Abdul Rasheed emphasized.