The residents of Gousia Colony (Lane B), situated in the heart of Srinagar city, are reeling under administrative apathy as key drainage work remains incomplete even after one year. Shockingly, full payment for the project has reportedly been released without any physical verification of work, with at least six pipes missing from the ground reality.
Eyewitnesses and locals allege that not only was the drainage left unfinished, but the contractors also lifted even the soling material that was initially laid at the site — a blatant case of misuse and possible embezzlement of public funds. The road, meant to be graded and eventually macadamized, remains in a muddy, unmotorable state.
“This isn’t just poor execution; it is sanctioned decay. Even villages in border districts have better lanes today,” said a local resident who has been raising the issue with the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) for over 12 months.
Despite multiple grievances submitted and promises made by concerned departments, no action has followed on the ground. With drainage choked, roads ungraded, and infrastructure degrading, Gousia Colony stands as a painful example of how Smart City funds can be misused under the nose of authorities.
We appeal to the Hon’ble Chief Minister of J&K and the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor to urgently intervene.
A thorough inquiry is needed. The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) must take cognizance and ensure accountability from both the executing agencies and the contractors.
It’s time to ensure that development doesn’t just reach drawing boards and payment files, but actually touches the ground where people walk, live, and suffer.
