New traffic diversion plan in Baramulla evokes mixed response

Baramulla, Apr 4: A new traffic diversion plan initiated by the Baramulla district administration to ease traffic movement in the town has evoked a mixed response from locals.

The administration has clarified that the new plan has been introduced on a trial basis, and if found effective, it will be implemented permanently. Although the initiative began on Sunday, the new traffic plan often leads to traffic jam   at several places, especially on R&B Road and from Tehsil Road to Kantbagh. School buses heading to various institutions also bore the brunt of the congestion, with several vehicles reaching late.

As per the new diversion plan, vehicles heading towards Sopore or Srinagar are required to pass through Cement Bridge and, after entering Old Town, reconnect to the Civil Lines area via Azad Gunj Bridge.  From there, they proceed towards the highway via R&B Road or DC Office Road. However, the traffic jam on the tehsil road, right from Kantbagh to Tehsil road is worrisome  for the daily commuters . The dilapidated road condition too has added to the people’s woes. The dividers have already narrowed the road, and the dilapidated road conditions from Khanpora to Kanispora too has become a big hurdle for the smooth functioning of the traffic.

While the plan eased congestion from Tehsil Road up to Main Chowk and Urdu Bazar, traffic snarls were reported on Dewanbagh Road and along the highway. The authorities are currently assessing the situation following the rollout of the new traffic plan. However, local residents, especially stakeholders, have expressed disappointment over not being taken on board before its implementation. “Such a plan should involve all stakeholders so that their concerns are also addressed,” said a trader. Although the new traffic plan has shown some improvement in streamlining traffic movement, the congestion witnessed on certain road stretches needs to be addressed.