Srinagar traders submit memorandum to CM on city center markets issues 

Srinagar: The traders and stakeholders of Srinagar city center markets, spanning from GPO Residency Road to Hari Singh High Street, have submitted a detailed memorandum to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. The memorandum highlights critical challenges faced by the trade community and seeks urgent government intervention to revive and sustain businesses in these markets.

The Chief Minister, after receiving the memorandum, assured the trade community that the issues raised will be addressed promptly and necessary measures will be taken to resolve their concerns, a statement issued by the delegation to Ziraat Times said.

Key issues and requests highlighted in the memorandum:

1.Public Transport Accessibility:

•Diversion of public transport routes at Pantha Chowk has significantly reduced customer footfall.

•Request for introducing 15-20 seater mini-buses to improve accessibility for shoppers.

2.Traffic Management:

•Frequent traffic diversions deter customers from visiting the markets.

•Call for balanced traffic management plans to ease access without disrupting customer inflow.

3.Completion of Old Court Complex:

•Appeal to expedite pending construction work to revitalize the surrounding areas.

4.Trade Tax Revision:

•Substantial tax hike (₹1,200 to ₹7,000) implemented without stakeholder consultation.

•Demand for immediate dialogue to determine a fair tax structure.

5.Pending Lease and Rent Agreements:

•Delays in lease extensions and rent agreements for shops under Roshni, Estates, and Waqf Boards.

•Request for clear guidelines to resolve these issues.

6.Access to Polo View Market:

•Restricted vehicle entry adversely impacts customer turnout.

•Call for restoring light vehicle access to support trade activity.

7.Parking Infrastructure:

•Urgent need for additional roadside parking slots at Residency Road, Regal Chowk, Lal Chowk, and Hari Singh High Street.

8.Beautification of Regal Chowk:

•Proposal to plant green bushes and enhance the aesthetics of Regal Chowk.

9.Preservation of Historical Markets:

•Official recognition and preservation of Lambert Lane, Central Market (Abiguzar), Arts Bazaar (Koker Bazaar), and Maisuma markets.

10.Special One-Time Settlement Scheme (OTS):

•Request for a special OTS to provide flexible repayment options for shopkeepers affected by prolonged disruptions.

11.Repair and Installation of Streetlights:

•Immediate repair of defunct streetlights and installation of new ones to improve safety and visibility.

12.Improvement of Zebra Crossings:

•Clear marking and maintenance of zebra crossings for better traffic and pedestrian management.