Sajid Raina
Srinagar, Feb 27: A day after a portion of the road along the Jhelum River collapsed due to expanding cracks, fresh fissures have emerged in nearby buildings and shops, causing further panic among residents on Thursday in the Hajin area of north Kashmir’s Bandipora district.
The road collapse on Wednesday followed weeks of deterioration, with severe cracks forming on the road, which had already prompted authorities to restrict traffic movement.
Today, new cracks appeared in homes and shops close to the affected stretch, raising serious concerns about the structural stability of these buildings.
Local residents said that the cracks in their homes are worsening, with some walls shaking. “We have been living in deep fear for the past few days, with some areas also facing damage to electricity and water supply. The unfortunate part is that the administration has not taken the issue seriously, and no official has visited us so far,” said Ali Mohammad, a local resident.
Another resident, Mohammad Saleem, urged the administration to address the issue seriously and find concrete solutions. “If the administration doesn’t take this issue seriously, it could lead to a disaster in the coming days. More and more cracks are developing in the area, and the situation is worsening,” he said.
Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner Dr. Manzoor Ahmad Qadri stated that the administration is taking the issue seriously. He mentioned that families living in the affected area will be relocated, and some buildings have already been identified for their rehabilitation. He also added that the Flood and Irrigation Department has been directed to initiate the necessary work. (KNO)
