Srinagar Smart City witnesses manhole cover thefts, misuse of footpaths

Srinagar : Miscreants stealing manhole covers and people turning footpaths into parking spots have emerged as new challenges for the officials of Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL) project.
An SSCL official said that the theft of manhole covers and the misuse of footpaths for vehicle parking in key areas like Residency Road, Maulana Azad Road are “defeating the very idea” of turning Srinagar into a “Smart City.”
“We are battling the continuous theft of manhole covers, particularly during night. This has become a recurring issue, posing serious risks to pedestrians and commuters. Such acts not only endanger public safety but also hinder our efforts to maintain the city’s infrastructure,” he said.
Another official said that the misuse of footpaths, constructed to facilitate pedestrian movement, is another pressing issue. “Footpaths are being used for vehicle parking, which goes against their intended purpose. This creates inconvenience for pedestrians and compromises road safety, ” the official added.
He said that the SSCL officials are working with the law enforcement agencies to prevent manhole cover thefts and prevent manholes from being turned into parking spots. “Public awareness campaigns will also be launched to encourage responsible use of public property,” the official said.
Meanwhile, the SSCL has urged citizens to play an active role in maintaining civic infrastructure by reporting suspicious activities and avoiding actions that disrupt public utilities