A mere hour of rain has once again laid bare the stark reality of Srinagar’s infrastructure, reducing the city to a chaotic, waterlogged mess. It begs the question: is this the true face of a ‘smart city’? Or is it a painful indictment of decades of neglect and mismanagement?
The disruption caused by this downpour is a stark reminder of the challenges Srinagar faces. The city’s drainage system, essential for urban life, seems woefully inadequate, unable to cope with even a moderate rainfall. This is not merely a technical failure; it is a systemic issue that has its roots deep in the city’s past.
Decades of governance characterized by dynastic rule and alleged misrule have taken a heavy toll on Srinagar’s infrastructure. The city, once a jewel in the crown, now grapples with problems that should have been addressed long ago. The inability to build a resilient urban environment is a glaring indictment of those who have held power for so long.
As Srinagar aspires to be a smart city, it is imperative to address these fundamental issues. Building a modern city requires more than just cosmetic changes; it demands a comprehensive overhaul of the infrastructure and a commitment to long-term planning. The recent deluge should serve as a wake-up call. It is time to move beyond rhetoric and deliver tangible results. The people of Srinagar deserve a city that can withstand the challenges of the future, not one that is crippled by the rains of the present.
