Srinagar, Jul 2: Dilapidated roads, uneven surface and uncovered manholes in several parts of Srinagar have emerged as major safety hazards, with commuters alleging that neglected road conditions are leading to frequent accidents, particularly involving two-wheelers and e-rickshaws.
The concerns resurfaced on Thursday after an e-rickshaw tilted at Nowpora area near Khayam Chowk when it passed through a large pothole on the damaged road stretch. According to witnesses, several passengers sustained minor injuries in the mishap, while locals blamed the accident on the deteriorating condition of the road.
Residents said the road stretch has remained riddled with potholes, uneven patches and damaged road surfaces despite redevelopment works undertaken under the Srinagar Smart City project.
"The road has become more dangerous than before. Every time it rains, potholes get filled with water, making it impossible for drivers to judge their depth. It has become a daily risk for commuters," said Asif Ahmad, a commuter.
Another resident said open manholes and broken road surfaces have become a common sight across many downtown localities.
"We witness near misses almost every day. E-rickshaws are particularly vulnerable because they easily lose balance on uneven roads. It is only a matter of time before a major tragedy occurs if these roads are not repaired," he said.
Commuters said similar conditions prevail in several downtown localities, parts of the city center, Hazratbal outskirts and some uptown areas, where damaged roads have remained unattended for months.
Locals recalled that only a few days ago another e-rickshaw overturned near Exchange Road after hitting a damaged portion of the road while taking a turn from the Maulana Azad Road junction. The incident, they said, once again exposed the risks posed by neglected road infrastructure.
E-rickshaw operators said navigating Srinagar's roads has become increasingly difficult.
"Every day we drive with fear. A small pothole is enough to tilt an e-rickshaw carrying passengers. We frequently experience narrow escapes, especially during rainfall when damaged portions remain hidden under water," said Faizan Ahmad, an e-rickshaw driver.
A two-wheeler rider said motorcyclists are among the worst affected.
"We constantly have to dodge potholes and open manholes. During peak traffic, there is hardly any space to avoid them, increasing the chances of accidents. The poor road condition is also damaging our vehicles and increasing maintenance expenses," he said.
Several commuters said the deteriorating roads not only present a shabby picture of the summer capital but also reflect poor civic upkeep.
"The biggest concern is public safety. During rains, these potholes become invisible under accumulated water and turn into death traps. Authorities must prioritize repairs before another serious accident takes place," said another commuter.
Officials from SMC had earlier stated that “As the summers are here, damaged roads across Srinagar would be upgraded and that necessary maintenance works would be carried out.”
However, residents said little has changed on the ground despite repeated assurances. They urged the authorities to immediately repair damaged road stretches, cover open manholes and undertake comprehensive maintenance across the city to prevent further accidents.