Nazir Jahangir
One fails to understand the mechanism our administration has adopted to function and finds itself at a loss to know as to “which side the camel has sat!” (Oont kis kervat baitha ha!). It seems as if the administration in most of the departments has fallen into coma. There is just ranting and raving in almost all the departments of public works and functions reduced to mock exercises.
Is there anyone who is really or actively addressing public issues and working towards its solutions, or is it all primarily driven by personal interests and fulfilling individual passions?
The individuals in positions of power seem just draining the public exchequer for individual comforts and prioritize their own personal passions.
We though appreciate the steps of erecting a bell tower (clock tower) in Lalchok, installing a valuable clock, decorating some specific roads, painting walls in preferred locations, establishing favored departments with magnificent buildings, and creating parks and markets in selected areas but it all loses its value and recognition when the basic issues and problems faced by the common man are ignored? Consequently, it appears that those in authority are solely dedicated to their own interests, while neglecting the genuine problems faced by the people. Their actions seem to be driven by personal ambitions, rather than a genuine commitment to address the concerns of the public.
Similar to an Ex C. M., who focused on creating and designing a tulip garden instead of addressing the common man’s issues, the pursuit of political benefits takes precedence over solving fundamental problems. This pattern is not unique to the said person, as anyone who attains power tends to prioritize personal interests, hobbies, or investments. As a result, the concerns of the common man are left unresolved, with little attention or interest shown towards them. This has led to growing frustration and chaos among the people, which has manifested in various forms of discontent.
It is unfortunate that instead of prioritizing crucial public issues, a significant number of individuals involved in the media industry tend to focus on sensational news. Unfortunately, they seem unaware that such sensationalism does not benefit the public; but instead, it negatively impacts society. The media personnel’s lack of interest in highlighting the real public issues only leads to further complications caused by their sensational news stories.
Recently, a distressing incident occurred in Lal Bazar, Buta Shah Mohalla’s bylane, where the ground suddenly collapsed, creating a deep ditch. This particular road connects to Darul Uloom Qasmia and also serves as a path frequently used by children and numerous vehicles. Consequently, due to this hazardous ditch, there is a significant risk of fatal accidents for both children and commuters.
The representatives from Mohalla approached the concerned authorities of City Roads Division and the Commissioner of Srinagar Municipality also, to express their concerns about the potential risks and casualties that could arise from this deep ditch. They submitted written applications to the respective departments as well. Unfortunately, it is disheartening to see that this ditch is still in need of repair and the administrative officials show no concern.
Now see the dog menace in Srinagar. This has assumed now alarming dimensions. In the past six years, Kashmir has witnessed 37467 animal bites, 26742 in Srinagar alone. Due to this menace people lost their lives also. As per reports by Anti-Rabies Clinic (ARC) at the Shri Maharaja Hari Singh (SMHS) Hospital from January 1, 2022 to December 31, 2022, Kashmir registered 4695 dog bite cases. Srinagar reported 289, 248, 284, 379, 329, 303, 240, 272, 289, 329,259,227 cases in January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December last year respectively.
Ganderbal district registered 269 dog bite cases, Budgam 218, Baramulla, 131, Bandipora 126, Kulgam 10, Pulwama 106, Shopian 107, Kupwara 64, Anantnag 43 respectively last year. Other cases summed up to 74.
Just a few days back, one more death. An 11 year old boy of Batamaloo lost his life. A pack of dogs chased him and he fell in the uncovered drain and died.
It is unfortunate that social media is mostly used for nonsensical propositions and simply posting of photos while this mobile technology could be used as a megaphone to hear people in the corridors of power? Social media could be used as a tool to play for a radical change in the administration which is in doldrums. There is a long list of amazing events which happened where the social media played as a catalyst and an effective tool for social change.
There are numerous narratives depicting the horrendous living conditions experienced by people in various areas of downtown. Walking through downtown areas becomes a challenging task due to the pervasive and repugnant stench that clings to many localities. Take, for instance, the Adalat Masjid area of Hawal Srinagar; if you happen to pass through these areas, you might find it necessary to cover your nose with a handkerchief to prevent vomiting caused by the offensive odor. The presence of extensive garbage dumps, coupled with stagnant filth and debris in the surface drains, generates this foul smell, shrouding these areas. Consequently, the inhabitants endure a wretched existence, while these basic issues and the suffering of the people receive scant attention from anyone and their clamoring in this regard is ignored.
If anyone is fortunate enough to get a chance to meet the Municipal Commissioner and ventilate his grievances he is offered just verbal assurances but never these assurances are translated in practical. If you approach City Roads Department which falls under the control of Srinagar Municipality, there too an anarchy like situation is observed. Manys Department prove just good for nothing where staff seems quarreling with tools.
Nazir Jahangir is a noted journalist and columnist
