Locals demand immediate repairsBaramulla: The crumbling Chandoosa-Baba Reshi Road has become a perilous nightmare for commuters, riddled with gaping potholes and treacherous bumps, as authorities continue to turn a blind eye to its deplorable condition.
The vital 16-kilometer stretch, connecting over 50 villages to famous tourist destination Srunz water fall and then revered Baba Reshi RA shrine and Baramulla district headquarters remains in utter disrepair, leaving residents to endure daily suffering.
For years, this critical artery has been reduced to a battered, uneven track, with no sign of macadamization or meaningful repairs. The road’s abysmal state has made travel a harrowing ordeal, particularly for patients, daily commuters, and schoolchildren. Vehicles crawl at a snail’s pace to navigate the hazardous craters, causing frustrating delays for employees and travelers alike.
Mohammad Shafi Rather, a prominent social activist from Chandoosa, voiced the collective anguish saying, “The government’s apathy is unbearable. Patients suffer immensely, and precious hours are wasted due to the road’s horrific condition. How long must we endure this neglect?”
Villagers from Chandoosa, Wadina, Shumlaran, Faqirbagh, Rajpora, Nowgam, Sultanpora, Doodbugh, Nilsar, and Danmoo lament that the road has deteriorated beyond recognition. During rains, the potholes transform into dangerous water pools, while hilly patches become slippery death traps. “This road was never this bad. Now, accidents are a daily occurrence,” fumed a local resident.
Transport operators bear the brunt of the road’s ruinous state. Irshad Ahmad, a Sumo driver, revealed, “Our vehicles are constantly damaged. The repair costs are bleeding us dry.” Private vehicle owners echoed similar grievances, citing skyrocketing maintenance expenses.
The road’s hazardous condition has even put pregnant women at risk. “Doctors have warned against travel here—it’s too dangerous,” shared a distressed local.
Despite repeated pleas to district authorities, no action has been taken. Frustrated residents now implore Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister, and Baramulla’s District Development Commissioner to intervene urgently. “We’ve been ignored for years. How much longer must we wait?” demanded an angry local.
While officials claim the road’s upgrade is “proposed,” bureaucratic delays have stalled progress. “The government must prioritize this road and start repairs immediately,” insisted another villager.
When contacted, the Executive Engineer of R&B Baramulla Rayees Ahmad Makdomi remained unavailable for comment despite repeated attempts.
