Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Baseer Ahmad Khan, today conducted an extensive tour of the Srinagar City to take stock of the ongoing anti-encroachment drive. Accompanied by Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Dr. Farooq Ahmad Lone, SP Traffic, SP East, officers of R&B, SMC and Fire & Emergency, among other officials, the Div Com inspected Lal Chowk, Regal Chowk, TRC, Naaz Crossing, Hari Singh High Street and Jehangir Chowk areas.The Div Com directed the SMC officials to follow the High Court directions in this regard and ensure that no violation takes place. He also directed them to ensure that no shopkeeper puts his merchandise on footpath or roadsides for display and called for strict punishments as per law for violators.
The Police and Traffic departments were asked to work in close coordination with the SMC to ensure smooth traffic and pedestrian movement.On the occasion, several footpath vendors apprised the Div Com about issues confronting them in their day-to-day life. The Div Com gave a patient hearing to them and assured that their genuine grievances will be redressed on priority.Seeking details about ongoing work on the Alochi Bagh-Barzulla Bailey Bridge, the Div Com was informed that the bridge will be thrown open for traffic soon. The officials said that trial runs on the bridge will be held within a day or two.The Div Com asked the officials to work in tandem so that work on this vital bridge is completed within the stipulated time and it is thrown open for vehicular traffic before the re-opening of Darbar Move offices in Srinagar.The Div Com also inspected the ongoing construction work of the Jehangir Chowk-Rambagh Flyover.