Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari calls for end to neglect, developmental deficit in Sher-e-Khaas

 

 

 

Says, successive governments have allowed the historic city to drift without a clear vision or direction

 

“A comprehensive roadmap is urgently needed to address Srinagar’s deepening civic crisis”

 

Srinagar, September 15: Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari today expressed serious concern over the growing civic problems facing Srinagar, saying that the shortage of parking space in Downtown is only one aspect of a much larger crisis confronting the historic city.

 

In his statement, Apni Party chief said: “I came across a media report highlighting how the shortage of parking space in Downtown Srinagar is affecting local businesses. The lack of adequate parking is keeping people away from markets and hurting businesses, including those in the historic markets of Sher-e-Khaas.”

 

He said that while the parking problem needs urgent attention, Srinagar’s civic challenges go far beyond it.

 

“The fact is that the parking issue is only one part of a much larger problem. Srinagar is facing several pressing civic issues, including inadequate housing, poor public infrastructure, damaged roads and lanes, insufficient drainage, and a lack of basic amenities,” he said.

 

Mr Bukhari expressed particular concern over the shortage of drinking water in several parts of the city.

 

 

He said, “The pathetic situation can be gauged from the fact that a large number of city residents do not even have access to an adequate supply of water. Many areas of Srinagar are struggling with a severe shortage of drinking water. It is deeply unfortunate that residents of a historic city like Srinagar continue to face such basic problems.”

 

Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari stressed the need for a comprehensive and long-term development plan for Srinagar, backed by genuine political will.

 

“Srinagar needs a comprehensive, long-term development plan. This requires political will and a firm commitment to putting people’s interests above politics. Superficial measures will not solve the city’s problems. We need planned development, better infrastructure and sustained investment,” he said.

 

He said that successive governments had failed to provide the historic city with a clear and sustainable development direction.

 

“Unfortunately, successive governments have allowed this historic city to drift without a clear direction. The present government has received a mandate from the people, and it must now take the initiative to rebuild, upgrade and modernise Srinagar’s infrastructure through a planned and comprehensive approach,” he said.

 

Apni Party President emphasised that the people of Srinagar deserve much better.

 

“After all, the residents of this historic city deserve basic amenities that enable them to live a smooth, dignified and comfortable life. Srinagar is not just a city; it is the heart of our social, cultural and economic life. Its development and modernisation must therefore be treated as a priority,” Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari said.