The deteriorating condition of vital link roads connecting Kreeri with Tilgam and Thindma via Pathnar has triggered widespread outrage among local residents, who accuse the Roads and Buildings (R&B) Department of persistent neglect. Despite repeated representations and promises by successive administrative authorities, both stretches continue to lie in shambles, posing serious risks to commuters and disrupting daily life.
The Kreeri–Tilgam road, which serves as an essential artery for several hamlets, has deteriorated significantly over the years, marked by eroded tarmac and massive craters.
Locals said that the road was included in developmental plans and that people had repeatedly raised the demand for its upgradation before senior authorities.
“The road was included in developmental plans and people raised the demand for its upgradation before senior authorities many times. But despite these prior interventions, the project never materialized on the ground,” Mohammad Saleem, a resident of Tilgam, said. Locals lamented that commuters are forced to navigate a treacherous path daily.
A similar grim situation prevails on the Kreeri–Thindma route via Pathnar. Residents said that the stretch has been plagued by deep potholes for the past several years, yet no repair or macadamization work has been initiated.
“The road has become completely unmotorable, especially during inclement weather when craters turn into waterlogged pools,” said Gulzar Ahmad Bhat, a resident of Kreeri. He said transporters frequently avoid this route, and school children, patients, and elderly citizens bear the brunt of official apathy.
An official from the R&B Department stated that the issue has been noted and assured that the matter would be looked into for appropriate redressal. “The issue has been noted and the matter would be looked into for appropriate redressal,” the official said.
Meanwhile, aggrieved residents have urged the District Administration Baramulla and senior R&B authorities to sanction immediate macadamization and repair works to alleviate the suffering of the rural population before the onset of harsh weather.
Residents said that any further delay would compound their hardships, especially for students, patients, and elderly persons who depend on these roads for daily movement. They demanded time-bound action from the concerned authorities.
