Srinagar: The Joint Traders Association (JTA), representing key city center markets, has expressed deep disappointment with the Smart City Grievance Office regarding the prolonged delay in restoring roads following recent underground cabling work. Despite the completion of this work three weeks ago, critical market areas such as Fashion Street, Abi Guzar Central Market, and Lambert Lane remain unpaved, leaving the lanes in a state of disrepair with dusty roads and open pits. These conditions are impacting the health of shopkeepers, damaging merchandise, and disrupting business operations.
JTA Chairman Farhan Kitab stated, “Shopkeepers have consistently supported Smart City initiatives aimed at enhancing urban infrastructure, yet we find ourselves repeatedly inconvenienced, left to navigate multiple offices just to address basic infrastructure needs. It is the traders who generate significant tax revenue and employment, and we deserve a responsive approach from the authorities.”
Mr. Kitab has personally appealed to Dr. Owais Ahmed, CEO of Smart City, to expedite the macadamization of these roads. He emphasized that the association and its members have made several representations to the Smart City Office, but without any visible progress.
The JTA is calling on the Smart City team to prioritize these essential repairs, ensuring safe and functional conditions in these markets. The association urges prompt action to mitigate the impact on businesses and restore the confidence of shopkeepers in city development projects.
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