Srinagar, Nov 24: Failure of Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) to clear encroachments from footpaths in various areas of the summer capital is taking a heavy toll on pedestrians.
Commuters said that footpaths in various areas including Karan Nagar, Rajouri Kadal, and Munwarabad have been encroached upon by second-hand car dealers by displaying cars on walkways.
“A large number of second-hand car and two-wheeler dealers misuse public footpaths for showcasing their vehicles,” a group of commuters at Karan Nagar said.
Tariq Ahmad, a commuter said the main road in the area has been encroached upon by car dealers making it difficult for locals and pedestrians to walk.
“Merchandise of shopkeepers and roadside vendors hinder the movement of pedestrians which forces them to walk along the road, thereby increasing the chances of accidents,” said a group of locals at Karan Nagar.
They further said that wrong parking by shopkeepers and shoppers hinders traffic movement in the city.
Commuters expressed surprise over the lack of action by the concerned authorities. A group of residents said shopkeepers in different municipal areas have illegally encroached upon footpaths and pavements by placing merchandise in front of their shops which is hindering pedestrian movement.
Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) Anti Encroachment Officer, Umar-Din-Chouhan, said that he would look into the matter.
“As of now, we are busy with some other work. So, it will take us around one week and then we will see,” he said while replying to a query.