Internal roads in Arwani Anantnag in dilapidated condition, locals demand repairs
Anantnag: The condition of internal roads in Nai Basti Bala Arwani area of Anantnag district has worsened drastically, leaving residents grappling with muddy stretches, stagnant water and severe mobility challenges, locals alleged Tuesday.
The deteriorated roadway has triggered strong resentment among locals who say daily life has been thrown into chaos due to official apathy.
According to residents, water and slush have accumulated at several points along the road, turning what was once a functional street into a near-impassable stretch. Children struggle to reach school, elderly people fear slipping, and patients find it extremely difficult to move, especially during emergencies.
“The road has become a nightmare for us. Every day we have to walk through mud and dirty water. Our children return home with soaked shoes and clothes,” said local resident Abdul Rashid. “In rainy weather, it becomes impossible to cross without falling.”
Locals alleged that the problem began after the Public Health Engineering (PHE) department dug up the road for official works but failed to restore it properly. As a result, nearly one kilometre of the internal road has been reduced to a muddy track and condition of other internal roads is also very bad.
“They dug the road months ago for pipeline work and left it like this. No macadam, no repairs — just broken earth and pits filled with water,” said another resident, Farooq Ahmad. “We feel abandoned. Authorities come, dig, and forget about the people who live here.”
Women residents also voiced concern over safety and hygiene issues. “It’s not just inconvenient, it’s dangerous. We have elderly family members who can’t even step outside without support,” said Shabnam Begum. “During night hours, it becomes even more risky due to darkness and slippery patches.”
Locals said that repeated requests to concerned departments have gone unheard, forcing them to raise their voices publicly.
The residents have now appealed to the district administration and concerned departments to take immediate notice of the issue and restore the damaged road without further delay, warning that continued negligence will only worsen public suffering.
