Municipal council Shopian directs installation of snow guards
Locals welcome move but seek ground-level implementation
Shopian: With the winter season approaching fast, the Municipal Council Shopian has issued strict directions to all roadside establishments to install snow safety equipment, including snow stoppers, guards and diverters, to prevent accidents and ensure public safety.
According to the advisory, all business units, residential houses, and other structures abutting or inclined towards roads, streets, lanes and by-lanes must immediately put up the required fixtures on rooftops and surface structures.
Officials said these measures are essential to avoid uncontrolled snow slides from rooftops, which often fall directly onto roads and pedestrian areas during heavy snowfall. Such incidents can lead to injuries, road blockages, property damage and disruptions in public movement.
“The aim is to manage snow load effectively and prevent structural hazards. Snow guards help in controlled melting and proper drainage, which is crucial for maintaining safety during winter months. We expect full cooperation from all stakeholders,” an official from the Municipal Council said.
The Council has warned that non-compliance will be taken seriously and could invite action under municipal laws.
While residents acknowledge the importance of the directive, many expressed concerns over its implementation on the ground.
Manzoor Ahmad, a resident of Shopian town, said, “These orders are not new. Similar advisories were issued in previous years as well, but nothing much changed on the ground. Most shopkeepers never installed snow guards, and authorities did not follow up.” Another local shopkeeper, Farooq Mir, echoed the sentiment, saying, “It’s a good step for public safety. Snow from rooftops often falls on pedestrians and moving vehicles, creating dangerous situations. But what’s the use of orders if there is no inspection or enforcement?”
Locals urged the Municipal Council to ensure strict monitoring this year so that the directive does not remain limited to paperwork.
“If the administration really wants to prevent accidents, they should carry out spot checks and ensure every shop and house along the road installs these snow guards. Only then will this order make a difference,” said Abdul Rashid, who runs a hardware shop in the main market.
