Sopore cab drivers face relocation amid shopping complex construction

Sopore, Oct 21: The recent commencement of construction for a much-awaited shopping complex by the local municipality in Sopore town has raised concerns among cab drivers who were asked to vacate their operating spot near Bugoo.
This decision has left approximately 150 registered cab owners in a state of distress, causing inconvenience not only to them but also to the general public due to traffic congestion caused by vehicles parked along roads.
Cab owners, who have been operating from the Bugoo spot for several decades, expressed their distress.
“We have prior written consent from stakeholders and authorities to use this location,” said Bilal Ahmed Rather, the president of Bugoo stand.
He said the sudden displacement has disrupted their services and is causing traffic jams in the area.
“We have a simple demand: to be accommodated at a convenient location. This will ensure the smooth functioning of our services without causing inconvenience to anybody,” he said.
ARTO Baramulla Muazam Ali assured that the matter would be discussed with the administration. He said efforts were underway to promptly resolve the issue.
Similarly, the Chief Executive Officer of Municipal Council Sopore told KNO that they are actively looking into the matter. He said the administrative steps would be taken to address the concerns of the general public and those associated with the stand. “A mutually beneficial solution will be found,” he said.
It is essential to note that frequent traffic jams along the stretch from Main Chowk to Police Station have been a concern for locals. They have urged the concerned authorities to take immediate action to ensure the seamless flow of traffic in the area.