Raja Syed Rather
Ganderbal, Apr 11: The frequent traffic jam in Ganderbal’s main town has become a daily nightmare for commuters, particularly students and government employees, as the poor regulation and unchecked encroachments continue to paralyze traffic movement.
Daily commuters highlighted the failure of concerned authorities to streamline vehicular movement on key roads including the stretch from Nagbal to Beehama via Duderhama Chowk, which remains choked throughout the day.
“In the absence of proper traffic control, we are stuck for hours. The main intersections are completely jammed, especially near Beehama-Duderhama,” said a local student.
Residents complained that haphazard roadside parking and encroachments by street vendors on footpaths are worsening the situation. “There is no space for pedestrians. People are forced to walk on the roads, adding to the chaos,” a shopkeeper in Duderhama said.
The constant gridlock has sparked public anger. “We reach offices and colleges late every day. It is affecting our education, jobs and even businesses,” said Shahid Jeelani, a daily commuter.
The town’s roads, officials acknowledge, are burdened by the rising number of private vehicles, which the current infrastructure can’t handle.
However, there may be relief in sight. Last year, the Government of India sanctioned Rs 827.98 crore for the construction and upgradation of the Pandach-Manigam 4-lane highway, part of the Srinagar Ring Road (Phase-IIA). The 12.11-km project is aimed at easing congestion and improving strategic and tourism connectivity to Leh and Kargil.
An official said work on the project is progressing. “The 3D notification has been issued. Once the remaining paperwork and formalities are done, visible development on the ground is expected in coming months.”
Until then, the residents of Ganderbal say they can only hope that immediate steps are taken to ease the town’s crippling traffic mess.
