Pulwama, Jan 29: Residents of Kakapora town in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district have expressed strong resentment over severe waterlogging and the dilapidated condition of roads, particularly at Kakapora Main Chowk, which has become a major source of inconvenience for commuters, patients and students.
Locals said that even a light snowfall of barely one inch has exposed the poor drainage system in the area, with rain and melted snow accumulating on roads and turning the main chowk into a virtual pool of water.
The situation, they said, worsens during minor spells of rain or snowfall, making movement extremely difficult.
“This is shocking and unfortunate. Just one inch of snow and the entire main chowk is submerged in water. It shows how bad the drainage system is,” said Abdul Rashid, a local shopkeeper. “Customers avoid coming here, vehicles get stuck, and pedestrians are forced to walk through dirty water.”
Residents said the road surface has deteriorated badly, with potholes filled with stagnant water, posing a serious risk to pedestrians and two-wheeler riders.
They claimed that the problem has persisted for years despite repeated representations to the concerned authorities.
Students and patients are among the worst sufferers, locals said. “Children going to school have to wade through water every morning. Their uniforms and shoes get soaked, and there is always a risk of slipping,” said Farooq Ahmad, a resident of the area. “What will happen during heavy rains or snowfall if this is the condition now?”
Patients visiting nearby health facilities also face immense hardship. “Ambulances and private vehicles find it difficult to pass through the chowk. Elderly patients and pregnant women suffer the most,” said Ghulam Nabi, another local.
Residents have urged the District Administration Pulwama and the concerned departments to take immediate steps to address the issue by repairing the damaged road, desilting drains, and ensuring proper water outflow.
They appealed to the administration to conduct an on-ground assessment and take urgent corrective measures to prevent further inconvenience to the public—(KNO)
