The Biz Reporter
Srinagar, Dec 5 : A delegation of the Kashmir Trade Alliance (KTA) led by its President Aijaz Shahdhar today met Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg (IAS) at his office to discuss issues confronting the business community across Srinagar. The meeting focused on infrastructure gaps, road connectivity, fire safety, Smart City upkeep, power supply planning and parking shortages that continue to affect commercial activity.
In a statement, KTA President Aijaz Shahdhar appreciated the Divisional Commissioner for giving the delegation a patient hearing and showing a positive approach towards trader concerns.
“We highlighted that the closure of Old Habba Kadal Bridge has severely impacted localized trade. Around 400 shopkeepers and their employees are suffering losses, and we requested reopening of the bridge for light motor vehicles to restore business movement,” Shahdhar said.
He further stressed that while Smart City initiatives have improved market aesthetics, maintenance remains inadequate, with tiles and surfaces needing repair.
“Under the Smart City project, underground electricity pipelines were laid at Karan Nagar area with huge expenditure, roads were dug and infrastructure was created, but now the process is being reversed by again erecting overhead poles, which defeats the objective of underground power supply and raises questions on duplication of effort,” Shahdhar noted, urging continuation of the underground cabling model.
Expressing concern over the growing number of fire incidents in commercial localities, Shahdhar said fire hydrants installed earlier must be made operational and mapped clearly to ensure quick response during emergencies.
On parking, he said congestion remains a persistent issue in Srinagar’s commercial belts and appealed for identification of dedicated parking sites, including the possibility of multi-level parking facilities, to ensure smooth movement of shoppers, vehicles and goods.
The delegation expressed confidence that addressing these issues will positively impact trade, pedestrian movement and business confidence across markets.
During the interaction, the Divisional Commissioner assured that the issues raised will be taken on record and necessary steps will be initiated with the concerned departments for review and redressal.
The delegation included senior members Aijaz Bisati, Sajad Hyder, Owais Yaqoob, Sajad Din, Rameez Shora, Zahoor Ahmad, Mohd Yousuf and Niyaz Ahmad.
Kashmir Trade Alliance thanked the administration for the assurance and hoped for timely resolution and continued engagement with stakeholders.
