Persistent traffic jams in Pulwama town cause widespread disruptions
Pulwama: The frequent traffic congestion in south Kashmir’s Pulwama town continues to trouble commuters, especially during the evening hours, as the town remains plagued by long and frustrating gridlocks, locals alleged Friday.
Residents attribute the issue to a combination of factors, including the lack of designated parking spaces, poor traffic management, encroachments and widespread disregard for traffic rules by people who often park their vehicles at wrong places.
Locals said that illegal roadside parking significantly contributes to the problem, with many motorists leaving their vehicles unattended, causing unnecessary bottlenecks.
Pamposh Ahmad, a resident of Pulwama town pointed out that the worst-affected stretch extends from Rajpora Chowk to the Newa Sumo Stand, a route that also houses the district hospital.
The congestion in this area creates major difficulties for patients and their attendants, delaying their movement.
Additionally, vendors and shopkeepers occupying the main roads force pedestrians to walk on the streets, further complicating the traffic situation.
“Even covering a short distance becomes a challenge,” Ahmad added.
Riyaz Ahmad Lone, another local, expressed frustration over the lack of substantial improvements despite some efforts by the traffic department.
“People are suffering daily due to this chaos, but nothing concrete has changed,” he said.
Government employees have also raised concerns, stating that persistent traffic jams threaten their punctuality at work, potentially jeopardizing their jobs.
“We have repeatedly brought this issue to the attention of authorities, but no meaningful action has been taken,” they lamented.
Residents and daily commuters argue that road widening is necessary, as the current infrastructure struggles to accommodate the increasing volume of traffic.
They have urged MLA Pulwama Waheed Ur Rehman Para and Deputy Commissioner Pulwama to intervene and find a lasting solution.
Meanwhile, an official stated that the municipal committee, in collaboration with other departments is actively taking action against drivers who park illegally along the roadsides.
However, locals believe that a more comprehensive approach is needed to tackle the issue effectively.
