Srinagar: Street vendors occupying footpaths and roadside spaces at Soura Main Chowk have become a major cause of daily traffic congestion, leaving commuters and pedestrians struggling to pass through the busy junction.
Locals said street vendors, particularly those selling street food, fruits and other edible items, have set up their stalls along the roadside at places frequently used by passing vehicles. The encroachment reduces the available road space, disrupting the smooth movement of traffic and causing frequent jams, especially during busy hours.
The situation has raised concerns among residents and commuters, as Soura Main Chowk serves as an important route connecting Srinagar and Ganderbal. The area also witnesses regular movement of patients and attendants travelling to SKIMS and SKIMS Maternity Hospital, raising concerns over delays for people seeking medical assistance.
Mohd Ramzan, a local commuter, said he was travelling towards Srinagar at around 5 pm when he encountered traffic congestion at the chowk. He said street food vendors had occupied roadside spaces used by passing vehicles, making it difficult for commuters to move through the area.
Another elderly passerby, Noor Mohammad, said the location holds particular importance because of its proximity to major healthcare facilities.
He said traffic congestion at such a busy junction creates inconvenience for daily commuters and may also cause difficulties for vehicles carrying patients to nearby hospitals.
Locals said the issue has become a recurring problem and urged the concerned authorities to regulate street vending at Soura Main Chowk. They called for appropriate measures to ensure that footpaths remain accessible to pedestrians and roadside spaces are kept clear for the smooth movement of traffic.
At the same time, locals urged the administration to identify and provide a separate designated space for street vendors where they can carry out their businesses without hindrance. They said such an arrangement would help vendors earn their livelihood while ensuring that pedestrians and commuters do not face inconvenience due to roadside encroachments.
Residents have appealed to the concerned authorities to look into the matter and take necessary steps to ease congestion at the chowk, ensuring smoother passage for commuters, pedestrians and patients travelling to nearby hospitals while also safeguarding the livelihoods of street vendors.
