Frequent traffic jams in Shopian town leave commuters frustrated
Shopian: The persistent traffic congestion in south Kashmir’s Shopian town has become a major cause of concern for residents and commuters, who blame poor traffic management, illegal parking, and unchecked entry of heavy vehicles for the daily chaos.
Locals allege that despite repeated government directives restricting the entry of heavy vehicles into the town during daytime hours, the orders are rarely enforced. As a result, large trucks and other heavy vehicles continue to ply through the town, leading to massive traffic snarls, particularly during peak hours.
Residents say that the lack of civic sense among some drivers and pedestrians further adds to the problem. “Even where parking facilities are available, people prefer to park their vehicles along the roadside, narrowing the already congested streets,” said a local shopkeeper.
He added that at many locations, random and double parking blocks the free flow of traffic, creating long tailbacks and unnecessary delays.
Aijaz Ahmad, a resident of Shopian, said that roadside encroachments by vendors and shopkeepers have worsened the situation. “The main roads are occupied by stalls and parked vehicles, forcing pedestrians to walk on the roads. It sometimes takes half an hour to cover just a few hundred meters,” he said.
Government employees working in the district said that the recurring jams are also affecting their professional lives. “We often reach our offices late due to traffic congestion. It’s becoming increasingly difficult to maintain punctuality,” said a group of employees.
Locals claim that the issue has been repeatedly raised with the concerned authorities, but little has changed on the ground. “Officials make promises during meetings, but those commitments are short-lived. The situation remains the same every day,” said another resident.
Residents have once again appealed to the higher authorities to intervene and implement a sustainable traffic management plan so that the public can finally get some relief.
Meanwhile, a district administration official said that steps are being taken to address the issue.
“Once the new highway becomes operational, all heavy vehicles will be diverted through that route. Additionally, strict action will be taken against encroachers and traffic violators,” the official assured.
