Srinagar: Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) Commissioner on Saturday said that comprehensive snow clearance and dewatering measures are in place amid snowfall predictions.
Commissioner SMC, Dr. Owais Ahmad, while speaking to the media as per news agency JKNS, said Srinagar Municipal Corporation currently manages a road length of 1,500 kilometers and 5,500 lanes and bylanes, most of which are cleared manually.
He stressed that a major portion of Srinagar falls under SMC’s jurisdiction, with ground teams working manually and mechanically during the recent snowfall, starting as soon as it began.
“Our roads are divided into three categories. Priority 1 includes essential routes like hospitals and critical lanes,” Owais said, adding all necessary measures are in place for timely clearance.
He further said that after snow melts and waterlogging occurs, SMC has dewatering machines with power backup and 127 drainage pumps available to address the situation. “A ward-wise plan is also in place to ensure colonies are cleared systematically,” he said.
“I request the public not to worry. If any emergency arises, machinery will be diverted immediately. Additional machines have been hired, and 4×4 vehicles with heating capabilities have been deployed,” Owais said. He also noted the availability of modified JCBs and robotic snow-lifting machines in hospitals and parks for added efficiency, Owais added.
The Commissioner reassured residents that the SMC is fully equipped to handle the winter challenges. (JKNS)
