Srinagar Deputy Commissioner Inspects Dr Ali Jan Road Upgradation

New Delhi, India Jul 15, 2026 ALN: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Akshay Labroo, conducted an onsite inspection of the ongoing road upgradation works along Dr Ali Jan Road to assess the progress of the project aimed at improving traffic flow on the busy stretch leading to SKIMS Soura.

Dr Ali Jan Road is a significant artery within the Srinagar district, particularly because it serves as a key route for patients and ambulances traveling to the Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), one of the premier healthcare institutions in the region. The road's condition has been a point of concern for both local residents and healthcare officials, as delays in repairs have led to increased traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. The ongoing upgradation efforts are not only focused on improving the road surface but also on enhancing the overall infrastructure around this crucial corridor.

During the inspection, the DC took stock of the ongoing road upgradation measures along the 425-meter road stretch adjacent to Aali Masjid, including the augmentation of the drainage network system. The drainage system is particularly vital as it plays a crucial role in managing rainwater runoff, which can lead to significant waterlogging issues in the area. Such waterlogging not only affects vehicular movement but also poses risks to pedestrians and can lead to hazardous conditions for emergency services that rely on quick access to the hospital.

The Deputy Commissioner reviewed possible traffic decongestion measures on the road connecting the Eidgah-SKIMS Soura corridor. This review is essential as the Eidgah area is known for its high foot and vehicular traffic, especially during special religious occasions and festivals, which can exacerbate congestion. The aim is to alleviate this congestion and ensure smooth vehicular movement, particularly for ambulances in and around the hospital. Local news outlets, such as Greater Kashmir, have highlighted the inconvenience faced by commuters and patients due to delays in repairs of Dr Ali Jan Road, bringing attention to the urgent need for infrastructure improvements.

In his inspection, the DC examined the progress of the ongoing upgradation works on the 425-meter road stretch adjacent to Aali Masjid, Eidgah, where civil works are underway to decongest the key Eidgah–SKIMS Soura corridor and improve connectivity. The improvements are designed to ensure smoother vehicular movement, especially for ambulances and other emergency services that require unhindered access to the hospital. The timely completion of these works is critical, as it directly impacts the quality of healthcare delivery in the region, particularly in emergency situations.

Additionally, the DC inspected the augmentation of the drainage network being developed alongside the road to facilitate efficient drainage and prevent waterlogging, particularly during heavy rainfall. The effective management of stormwater runoff is essential in urban planning, and the improvements in drainage will not only enhance road usability but also contribute to the overall sanitation and health standards of the area.

On this occasion, the DC was informed about the status of the work, the execution timeline, and the measures being taken to minimize inconvenience to commuters during the construction phase. He emphasized the importance of maintaining the quality of work while ensuring that the project progresses within the stipulated timeframe. The balancing act between swift construction and quality assurance is a common challenge in public works, and the DC's oversight aims to mitigate potential pitfalls that could arise during the project.

The DC directed the concerned executing agencies to ensure close coordination among all departments for the timely completion of the project. This coordination is vital, as multiple stakeholders are involved in such infrastructure projects, including civil engineers, traffic management officials, and local government authorities. He stressed that all works, including road upgradation, drainage improvement, and allied infrastructure development, should be carried out in a synchronized manner to avoid delays and repeated excavation without hampering traffic movement on the road. This approach is intended to streamline operations and reduce the likelihood of disruptions that could frustrate commuters and residents alike.

Furthermore, the DC instructed the officers to adopt effective traffic management measures during the execution of the project to ensure that the public does not face any inconvenience. Traffic management strategies may include temporary traffic diversions, clear signage, and the deployment of traffic personnel to guide vehicles through the construction zones. The goal is to maintain public safety and minimize disruption to daily activities while the necessary upgrades are being made.

The DC was accompanied by Additional Deputy Commissioner, Mir Imtiyaz Ul Aziz, Chief Planning Officer, Fayaz Ahmad Dar, Superintending Engineer R&B North Circle, Shabir Ahmad, Executive Engineer R&B, Arif Hazari, Executive Engineer UEED, Shabir Ahmad, Tehsildar Eidgah, Mohammad Iqbal, and other concerned officers. The presence of these officials reflects the collaborative effort required to address the infrastructure needs of the region and underscores the importance of governmental oversight in public works projects.

In the broader context, the upgradation of Dr Ali Jan Road is part of a larger initiative by the Srinagar administration to improve urban infrastructure and enhance the quality of life for its residents. As urban populations continue to grow, the demand for efficient transport systems becomes increasingly critical. Projects like this not only aim to address immediate infrastructural deficiencies but also serve as a foundation for future urban planning and development efforts.

In conclusion, the inspection of Dr Ali Jan Road by the Deputy Commissioner highlights the ongoing commitment of local authorities to improve essential infrastructure and ensure that public services, particularly healthcare, are not compromised by inadequate road conditions. As the project progresses, continued public engagement and transparent communication will be vital in maintaining public trust and support for such initiatives, which ultimately aim to enhance the overall quality of life in Srinagar.