Bhat Nasir
Srinagar, Jan 30, : Newly constructed footpaths across Srinagar are being brazenly encroached upon by shopkeepers and erring vehicle owners, turning pedestrian walkways into personal parking spaces.
This growing menace is evident in areas such as Old City, Babademb, Batamaloo, Hazratbal, Nowhatta and Khanyar, where pedestrians are increasingly forced to walk on busy roads, risking their lives.
The Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) has acknowledged the issue and assured strict action against encroachments.
Speaking to the correspondent of ‘Associated News Bureau,’ the Public Relations Officer (PRO) Idrees Aqail Mir of SMC said, “We are conducting continuous drives against footpath encroachments.
Despite significant investments in urban infrastructure, including the construction of footpaths to ensure safer movement for pedestrians, many of these walkways are now occupied by vendors, shopkeepers, scrap dealers, and car dealers, particularly in Babademb.
The encroachment has not only disrupted pedestrian movement but also led to frequent traffic congestion, making everyday commuting a nightmare for residents.
Residents and commuters have voiced their frustration over the issue, calling for strict action against the violators.
Abdul Ahad, a resident of Batamaloo said, “We were happy when the government built proper footpaths, but now they are of no use. Shopkeepers and vendors have taken them over, leaving no space for pedestrians.”
In Babademb, the situation is even worse, with scrap dealers and car dealers occupying large sections of footpaths, forcing pedestrians onto the road. Many elderly citizens and children find it particularly difficult to navigate through these encroached spaces, increasing the chances of accidents.
“Walking to college has become dangerous. We have to navigate through parked vehicles and roadside vendors. Authorities need to take strict action before an unfortunate accident occurs,” said Zahid Ahmed Dar, a student.
In fact, in 2024 alone, we have recovered fines amounting to Rs. 2.5 lakh from those who have illegally occupied footpaths. Additionally, we have seized goods from violators.”
However, despite these measures, encroachments continue to resurface, indicating that fines and temporary crackdowns might not be enough to deter habitual offenders. The SMC official further stated that operations against encroachers would be intensified in the coming days.
Beyond enforcement, the lack of civic sense among a section of the public remains a pressing concern. While authorities can remove illegal structures and fine violators, sustainable change can only be achieved when people understand the importance of keeping footpaths free for pedestrians.
Chief Encroachment Officer of SMC Syed Batyari while talking with Associated News Bureau stated, “We are on our toes round the clock to remove illegal encroachments from footpaths.
At times, we reach home late to ensure that pedestrian pathways remain unobstructed. However, enforcement alone is not enough—we need cooperation from all quarters. Most importantly, people must develop a sense of civic responsibility. If everyone respects public spaces and follows the rules, our city can be more pedestrian-friendly. Encroachments not only cause inconvenience but also pose serious safety hazards. We will continue our efforts and intensify operations to reclaim footpaths for their intended purpose.”
“Rules alone won’t change anything. People need to develop a sense of responsibility. Footpaths are for walking, not for business or parking,” said Abdul Rashid, a local.
For now, the battle to reclaim Srinagar’s footpaths continues, with pedestrians hoping for a permanent solution that allows them to walk safely without risking their lives on the city’s busy roads. (ANB)
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