Road Divider Work Triggers Concern Among Residents, Shopkeepers in Ganderbal
Touseef Wani
Ganderbal, September 16 : Residents of Manigam in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district have raised concerns over the proposed closure of an old road link connecting the locality with the main highway following the installation of a road divider.
According to residents, the existing access point serves as an important link for the local population, commuters and businesses. They apprehend that its closure could create difficulties for pedestrians, motorists and shopkeepers by forcing people to use longer alternative routes.
Residents said the installation of the divider has already altered traffic movement in the area and urged the authorities to first ensure sufficient entry and exit points before proceeding with any decision to close the existing road.
“We have no objection to measures aimed at improving road safety, but the convenience and requirements of the local population must also be taken into consideration,” residents said.
Local shopkeepers have also expressed apprehension that restricted access could adversely affect customer movement and vehicular access to the nearby market.
The residents have appealed to the administration to conduct a detailed ground assessment and hold consultations with local stakeholders before taking any final decision on the proposed closure.
Officials, meanwhile, said the matter would be taken up with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and that the concerns raised by residents would be conveyed to the concerned authorities for consideration.
Residents have called for a balanced solution that strengthens road safety and traffic management without disrupting local connectivity and access to Manigam.
