Srinagar: Residents of Barbar Shah and Babademb in Srinagar have expressed serious anger over what they call the unchecked occupation of public roads by local car dealers, who continue to park multiple vehicles for sale along busy stretches, causing frequent traffic jams and endangering public safety.
According to locals, the dealers have converted parts of the road into unauthorized extensions of their showrooms, leaving no space for pedestrians and causing obstructions to both private and emergency vehicles. “They are treating public roads like their own private property,” said an aggrieved resident from Barbar Shah.
While the Traffic Department did swing into action lately and attempted to tow away the illegally parked vehicles from Barbar Shah, their efforts were reportedly met with resistance from the dealer. To the shock of residents, the vehicles were back on the roadside soon after officials left.
A similar scene plays out in Babademb near Brarinambal, where another dealer is allegedly using the road to display both branded and second-hand cars.
Despite several complaints lodged with the authorities, the problem persists, leaving residents frustrated and concerned about the inaction of enforcement agencies. “We support the administration’s efforts, but unless strict and sustained action is taken, this nuisance will continue,” said another local from Habakadal.
Citizens have urged the Srinagar Municipal Corporation and the Traffic Department to not only take immediate steps against the violators but also ensure regular monitoring to prevent recurrence of such illegal practices.
Illegal parking, especially by commercial entities, has emerged as a widespread issue across Srinagar, turning roads into congested and dangerous zones. [KNT]
