Srinagar, Oct 19: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) former MLA Noor Mohammad Sheikh and former State Secretary and Constituency Incharge Habba Kadal, Arif Laigroo, met Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo at the Civil Secretariat in Srinagar and raised pressing public issues concerning Shahri-Khaas and adjoining areas.
The leaders highlighted persistent drainage problems, the deteriorating condition of lanes and roads in Shahri-Khaas, and public concerns regarding the proposed pillar-based flyover at Shalteng. They urged the administration to intervene promptly and ensure that public grievances are addressed through concrete, time-bound measures.
Arif Laigroo said, “The people of Shahri-Khaas cannot be left to suffer because of persistent drainage problems and deteriorating roads. We have urged the Chief Secretary to direct the concerned departments to conduct an immediate on-ground inspection and prepare a time-bound action plan for drainage improvements and road repairs. The administration must ensure accountability and deliver visible results rather than repeated assurances.”
“Our neighbourhoods need proper civic infrastructure, and the genuine grievances of residents must receive priority attention. We will continue to raise these issues with the concerned authorities until meaningful steps are taken to provide relief to the people.”
Meanwhile, Noor Mohammad Sheikh demanded thorough review of Shalteng flyover.
“The proposed pillar-based flyover at Shalteng is a matter of serious public concern and requires a comprehensive review before the project proceeds. We have urged the Chief Secretary to ensure a detailed technical assessment of the proposed design, its impact on traffic movement, local connectivity, nearby businesses and residents, and the availability of more suitable alternatives,” he said.
“The administration must not take decisions of such public importance without adequately addressing the concerns of the people who will be directly affected. We demand meaningful consultation with local stakeholders, a transparent assessment of the project’s implications and a thorough examination of alternative designs that can ease traffic congestion without creating additional hardships. Public interest must remain paramount, and the concerns of residents must be heard and addressed before a final decision is taken on the Shalteng flyover.”
Sheikh further stressed that the concerned departments should be directed to resolve drainage bottlenecks and undertake necessary road repairs in Shahri-Khaas within a clearly defined timeframe.
The PDP leaders called upon the administration to ensure prompt action on these issues, with clear timelines, effective departmental coordination and due consideration for the needs and concerns of the local population.
