Srinagar: The Srinagar Smart City Project, aimed at transforming the city’s infrastructure, has become a continuous source of nuisance for residents due to rampant dust pollution. The road from Bohrikadal to Khanyar, a key stretch in Srinagar city, has been rendered impassable due to excessive dust, causing hardships for pedestrians and commuters.
Shopkeepers in the area are struggling to keep their businesses afloat as the heavy dust pollution has deterred customers from visiting their shops. The situation has been exacerbated by the use of bajri and other materials by contractors, which has worsened the dust pollution after the filling of drains.
Locals are aghast at the government’s approach to the issue, expressing resentment over the lack of accountability. “We don’t want development at the cost of our health,” said a local resident, adding that the construction material is lying everywhere, and the roads are dilapidated, making it difficult to commute.
The dust pollution has also raised serious health concerns, with residents fearing long-term effects on their well-being. “Look at these flowers and plants and vehicles, all have been disfigured due to heavy dust pollution,” said a trader.
“Our business has been badly hit as customers don’t visit our shops due to pollution. Authorities are unmoved, doing nothing,” he added.
The locals said that the situation has persisted for over a year, with no respite in sight. They have demanded immediate action from the authorities to mitigate the dust pollution and ensure that development projects do not come at the cost of their health and well-being. [KNT]
