The defective drainage system in several areas of Srinagar city keeps on creating problems for local residents through out the year. However, in winters the problem takes even more serious turn.
Reports say amid freezing cold, the waterlogged roads due to defunct drainage system pose risk to commuters. According to the residents, the water from defunct drains spills on roads.
During night the water freezes on roads and affects the movement of vehicular traffic and also that of the pedestrians during the morning hours. The drivers find it difficult to control vehicles on the slippery roads. The vehicles sometimes skid and lead to mishaps.
Those riding the two wheelers particularly have a tough time on such roads. The residents of Batapora area in Hazratbal face this problem. Same problem is being faced around Nawakadal and Nallahmar Road and some other areas too.
The problem gets further complicated and extended to other areas after the snowfall in winter. Finding a solution to the defunct or poor drainage system must be a priority for the concerned authorities.
The residents say that they have been drawing the attention of the officials towards their problem but no action is taken. The concerned officials must take notice of such public grievances and redress those. Those issues must not remain unresolved for long. The authorities keep on saying that solving the basic problems of common people is their priority.
Solving the defunct drainage system related problem too must be a priority .The authorities must have a closer look of the drainage system in the city. Wherever there are problems those need to be resolved. During the Srinagar Smart City Project the drainage system in a number of areas got overhauled.
It is being hoped that there is an improvement in the drainage system in these areas. However, in other areas where the drainage system is not working, action is needed to take corrective measures.
There are a number of areas, particularly new residential areas, which are not having any drainage system. Such areas too must be covered by laying drains there. The proper drainage system in the city can prevent water-logging on roads, and thus the freezing of the spilled over water on roads during winter nights.