Call for balanced approach to Jama Masjid closures, water supply restoration and parking facilities under Smart City project
Srinagar, April 4: A meeting of trade leaders and stakeholders held at the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry office today raised several pressing civic and economic concerns affecting the Shahte Khass area, with participants urging authorities to take corrective measures to ease business operations and improve living conditions.
The meeting was attended by Chairman Bashir Ahmad Kanu, Executive Member Aurangzaib Bhat of Shahre Khass Traders and Chambers, and Copper Union President Farooq Ahmad, among others. The participants shared their suggestions with the Divisional Commissioner, SSP Traffic and Deputy Commissioner in what was described as a positive and constructive interaction.
Representatives of Shahre Khass Traders and Chambers highlighted key issues impacting trade and daily life, expressing hope that timely intervention would lead to meaningful improvements.
One of the major concerns raised was the frequent closure of Jama Masjid Srinagar, which traders said has been adversely affecting business activity in the area. While acknowledging the importance of security measures, they urged authorities to explore alternative mechanisms that ensure safety without severely disrupting livelihoods.
The traders also flagged a serious water supply issue, noting that the earlier pipeline connection from Rangil has been discontinued. As a result, residents and businesses are now dependent on unsafe sources, including Dal Lake, raising health concerns. They called for urgent restoration of the pipeline to ensure access to safe drinking water.
While expressing support for the Smart City initiative, the stakeholders pointed out the absence of designated parking zones in Shah Re Khass. They said the lack of parking infrastructure has led to congestion, inconvenience for customers, and operational challenges for businesses, despite repeated representations to authorities.
The meeting also discussed a proposal to establish a Sunday market in the backside area of Idgah to create livelihood opportunities for local youth. The proposal had earlier received approval from former Deputy Commissioner Asad Ajaz, but traders expressed concern that the project has not progressed further, depriving the community of its potential economic and social benefits.
The traders reiterated their commitment to working with the administration to address these challenges and called for a coordinated approach to ensure sustainable development, improved civic amenities and a conducive environment for trade in the area.
