KREERI, BARAMULLA, April 8: Residents of Kreeri and its adjoining areas in north Kashmir have expressed strong resentment over the incomplete construction of the Ziyarat road, accusing the Rural Development Department of neglecting a vital public project and leaving locals to suffer.
The road, which stretches from Kreeri Market to the revered shrine of Syed Haji Mohammad Murad Bukhari (RA), serves as a crucial link for more than 20 villages, connecting Kreeri to Babareshi and Tangmarg via areas such as Suchipora, Dolipora, Kawachak Sheikhpora, Khaipora Kakothal, Nambalnar and others. Locals say the road is currently in a dilapidated condition, riddled with potholes and posing serious risks to commuters.
Residents alleged that despite repeated appeals, the department has failed to address the worsening condition. “The authorities seem to be in deep slumber. The road is in a shabby state, and vehicles are getting damaged regularly. Children and elderly people are finding it difficult even to walk,” they said.
They said the road had earlier suffered from severe waterlogging due to poor drainage. Following persistent demands, funds were eventually sanctioned and construction work, including the laying of drainage pipes, was initiated. However, the work was abruptly halted just before the holy month of Ramadan and has not resumed since.
As a result, the situation has deteriorated further, with water accumulating on the road, soil subsiding at multiple locations, and the entire stretch turning muddy and unsafe for both pedestrians and vehicles. Residents said the incomplete work has created serious inconvenience, particularly for patients, school-going children and emergency services.
The issue has gained urgency with the approaching Urs of Syed Haji Murad Bukhari (RA), an annual religious event that draws a large number of devotees from across the region. Locals fear that the current condition of the road may lead to severe inconvenience, traffic disruptions and potential safety hazards for visitors.
Adding to the concerns, residents claimed that the contractor had cited alleged threats from certain individuals as a reason for not resuming the work, raising questions over the smooth execution of public welfare projects in the area.
Meanwhile, residents of the Kreeri-Wagoora constituency have appealed to their MLA, Advocate Irfan Hafiz Lone, to intervene and ensure immediate resumption of the work. “We only see politicians during elections. Basic amenities like road connectivity remain neglected,” they said, urging the MLA to visit the area and assess the situation firsthand.
When contacted, Assistant Commissioner Development (ACD) Baramulla, Mudasir Choudhary, said he would verify the status of the project and respond. However, no further response was received, and subsequent attempts to reach him went unanswered, further adding to the residents’ frustration.
About The Author
Comment List