Mohammad Younis
Baramulla, August 07 ; The exponential rise in commercial ventures within Baramulla Town has led to a surge in vehicles, leaving commuters struggling to find suitable parking spaces for their vehicles.
The absence of proper parking facilities has turned the once bustling town into a nightmare for daily commuters.
The escalating issue of inadequate parking facilities has worsened as the district administration’s efforts to address the problem have shown little progress, leaving commuters from nearby areas in distress.
Earlier this year, the district administration identified potential land for parking, offering a glimmer of hope to the exasperated residents. However, despite the promising start, no substantial progress has been made on implementing the proposed parking solutions.
Haphazardly parked vehicles on roadsides have led to frequent traffic jams. “Anyone planning to visit popular spots like the main chowk market or DC office area faces the daunting task of finding parking space, as it has become nearly impossible,” Kashif Dar, a college student told Kashmir Despatch.
Local resident Aadil Shagoo emphasised the urgent need for establishing adequate parking facilities to alleviate traffic congestion. “The proliferation of street vendors, improper parking, and the unauthorised conversion of important thoroughfares like the Cement Bridge into a Sumo Stand add to the traffic congestion,” Shagoo added.
Back in 2019, the district administration identified suitable land for establishing a parking facility near government offices, the R&B Department, the relocation of Fire and Emergency services, and the relocation of a veterinary hospital to ease the parking issue for both locals and visitors. However, no concrete steps have been taken since then to implement these plans, leaving the problem unresolved.
In response to mounting concerns, Municipal President Omar Kakroo assured that a committee has been formed to address the parking problem and prioritise the establishment of parking facilities in front of Girls Higher Secondary and Boys Higher Secondary schools. The identified land will be cleared of encroachments, and if necessary, arrangements will be made to provide government offices with alternative space.
Omar Kakroo anticipates that Baramulla will have its own multi-level parking facility by the end of the present year, which is expected to significantly improve traffic flow within the town.
