Srinagar, Apr 28: Encroachment by used car dealers in several parts of Srinagar has emerged as a growing civic concern, with residents alleging that footpaths and road margins are increasingly being occupied by vehicles put up for sale, leaving little to no space for pedestrians.
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Locals from multiple areas of Srinagar, including Baba Demb, Darish Kadal, Munawarabad, Bohri Kadal, Karan Nagar and Nowhsera, said that several second-hand car vendors have extended their operations well beyond designated shop premises, parking rows of vehicles along footpaths and adjoining roads.
This practice, they say, not only obstructs pedestrian movement but also contributes significantly to traffic congestion on already strained city routes.
“In many places, pedestrians are forced to walk on the main road because footpaths are completely taken over by parked cars for sale. This is both inconvenient and dangerous,” said Abbas Alamgir, a resident of old Srinagar, adding that the situation worsens during peak traffic hours.
Residents further alleged that the unchecked practice has turned several stretches into informal car bazaars, where vehicles are lined up bumper-to-bumper, narrowing road space and slowing down vehicular movement.
The problem is particularly visible in busy commercial areas, where traffic density is already high.
Commuters complained that such encroachments often lead to bottlenecks, increasing travel time and raising the risk of minor accidents.
“What should be a smooth passage turns into a choke point because of these roadside car displays,” said Aqib Ahmed, another commuter.
Responding to the concerns, Senior Superintendent of Police (Traffic) Aijaz Ahmad Bhat said the Traffic Police regularly conduct enforcement drives against those occupying public spaces.
“We are carrying out drives against such violations and will continue to act against offenders,” he said.
Meanwhile, efforts to seek a response from the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) were unsuccessful, as the Commissioner did not respond to repeated calls from the reporter.
Calling for stronger and sustained action, residents urged the authorities to ensure strict enforcement of regulations to prevent misuse of public spaces.
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They stressed that footpaths are meant for pedestrians and should remain accessible at all times.
