Srinagar city, christened as the “Heart of Kashmir,” is losing its luster. Once a haven for tourists seeking its amazing landscapes and serene beauty, the city is now grappling with a traffic nightmare that threatens to strangle its very soul. While a growing population and increasing tourist footfall should be a cause for celebration, Srinagar’s infrastructure simply hasn’t kept pace. The result? A choked city with frustrated residents, polluted air, and a tourism industry grappling with logistical challenges.
Some of the recent development projects for the city, including development of Semi Ring Road project, multiple parking spaces in and around the city centre are goosld steps in the right direction.
The current traffic situation in Srinagar is a confluence of several factors. Decadal population growth of about 28% in J&K, as a whole, has put immense pressure on existing road networks. Ongoing road modification projects further squeeze already limited space, while poorly planned construction often results in blocked intersections and underpasses. Two striking examples are Jehangir Chowk crossing and areas around Lal Chowk. Same is the case with Karan Nagar, M A Link Road, crucial for connectivity to city’s main SMHS and SKIMS Soura hospitals. The lack of consideration to basic traffic engineering, especially related to traffic flow often results in a frozen city.
The rising number of commercial and personal vehicles on the road only exacerbates the problem. Srinagar lacks a robust public transportation system, forcing residents to rely on personal vehicles. The situation is further compounded by the good presence of tourists during peak seasons.
Srinagar’s woes extend beyond just traffic congestion. The construction projects themselves contribute significantly to the city’s woes. Dust from poorly managed construction sites all around hangs heavy in the air, posing a health hazard for residents. Contractors often leave behind a trail of debris and unkempt public spaces, creating an eyesore for locals and tourists alike.
Pedestrians are the most vulnerable victims of Srinagar’s traffic woes. With a growing number of stray dogs roaming the streets, navigating the city on foot is becoming increasingly dangerous. This not only discourages locals from walking, but also creates a negative experience for tourists who prefer to explore a city at a slower pace.
Srinagar’s tourism industry, a vital source of income for the city, is directly threatened by the traffic congestion. Tourists arriving for a peaceful escape are greeted by long commutes, polluted air, and a chaotic environment. Word-of-mouth travel recommendations can quickly turn negative if the city experience becomes unpleasant. If Srinagar fails to address its traffic woes, it risks losing its allure and becoming an unattractive destination.
This situation in Srinagar demands immediate and decisive action from the J&K government. In the short term, public spaces, mainly roads, that have been squeezed or concretised need to be opened up. Projects that are incomplete and irresponsibly executed by contractors, like the beautification of the Bund in Srinagar, need attention. From a public health perspective, strict regulations and monitoring are needed to ensure construction projects are conducted responsibly. Dust control measures, proper waste management, and timely completion of projects are crucial. Penalties for non-compliance should be enforced to deter irresponsible practices. In the long term, traffic planning needs to be integrated into the city’s overall development plan. Future infrastructure projects, including the semi-ring road, should be carefully designed and integrated into the existing traffic system, to cater to the growing population and tourist arrivals.
Srinagar’s traffic crisis is a wake-up call. The city faces a stark choice: address these issues head-on or risk becoming an unlivable destination.
