Bilal Bashir Bhat
There is no doubt that the city of Srinagar has a world-class historical status. Srinagar is the second-largest city in the Himalayas after Kathmandu. The lakes, Mughal gardens, houseboats, Jhelum river, culture, civilization are not only famous in the subcontinent but Srinagar is also known worldwide for its natural beauty.
Days, the inclusion of Srinagar in the list of Creative Cities by UNESCO was a welcome development for which every conscious citizen must be happy. However, with this process, the excesses of the residents regarding construction and development cannot be put back.
Instead of celebrating the honor bestowed on Srinagar by UNESCO, positive actions must be taken to bring relief to the people of Srinagar.
It is no secret that the people of Srinagar are still striving for an uninterrupted supply of electricity and drinking water. Even today, the roads here offer no less than a view of the ruins.
In the internationally renowned city of Srinagar, public transport still disappears from the streets before sunset. On the ground, it is known that there are more stray dogs than humans.
A part of the city called Downtown has been hidden from the eyes of the government for decades. Here even today the youth have to spend their childhood in the narrowest streets of the neighborhood due to the unavailability of playgrounds. The stench of garbage in the northern part of the city makes the residents feel pitiable.
On one hand, these administrative shortcomings, on the other hand, the people here have to realize their responsibilities. Giving this all a quick read, it seems we are pretty much in the middle of nowhere. There is no hesitation in hurting the glory of the precious capital of Srinagar.
At the social level, it is proud that the land of Srinagar is full of shrines of saints, but it is very sad to write that there are drug institutes around these shrines. Occupancy of sidewalks by shopkeepers is not a new story.
Therefore, we should realize our responsibilities regarding these issues. It will be a real celebration of the citizens of Srinagar and the people of the present administration.
