Srinagar residents for upkeep of Rawalpora flood channel

Tribune News Service

Srinagar, September 13

Amid looming flood threats in the summer capital, residents have urged the government to maintain the Rawalpora flood channel, which, they say, had saved the area from the devastating September 2014 floods.

“This 2-km channel has saved us from floods in the past. When most parts of Srinagar got submerged in the 2014 floods, Rawalpora and areas in its vicinity like Wanbal, Rangreth and Sanatnagar were saved. Unfortunately, the Rawalpora flood channel has turned into a dustbin now and the government has completely ignored it. There is always a looming flood threat in Srinagar, especially at this time of the year when there is heavy rainfall. Therefore, we urge the administration to take adequate steps for its upkeep,” said Adil Hameed on behalf of a delegation of Rawalpora-Wanbal residents.

He said the channel could be turned into a tourist spot if maintained properly. Migratory birds visit this channel and if properly maintained, it could even attract tourists.