Srinagar, Oct 17: A delegation of the Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers Federation (KTMF), led by its president Mohammad Yaseen Khan, met newly appointed Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) Commissioner and Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL) CEO Dr Basharat Qayoom, to discuss civic issues and long-pending grievances affecting the city’s trading community.
The delegation congratulated Dr Qayoom on his new assignment and expressed hope that his tenure would bring renewed attention to Srinagar’s civic challenges and the concerns of traders.
During the meeting, Khan raised issues concerning sanitation fees imposed on business establishments, delays in building permissions and the growing problem of street vending. He called for a balanced approach to municipal administration that ensures effective civic services while protecting the legitimate interests of established businesses.
Javaid Ahmad Zargar, president of the Jamia Traders Federation, highlighted the deteriorating condition of roads, lanes and bylanes in the Jamia Masjid area, saying poor infrastructure was causing difficulties for traders, residents and devotees visiting the historic mosque. He also sought priority attention to issues concerning Jamia Market and the marriage hall at Chandpora.
Arif Kareem, president of the Hari Singh High Street Traders Association, expressed concern over unregulated street vending and its impact on established businesses and pedestrian movement. He called for effective regulation and enforcement of existing rules to ensure orderly commercial activity and accessible public spaces.
Representing Polo View Market, association chairman Mukhtiar Ahmed Bawan and spokesperson Basharat Ahmed Khajawaal highlighted the difficulties faced by traders following restrictions that made the market non-motorable. They said the arrangements had affected customer access and business activity, urging the authorities to explore practical measures to restore the market’s commercial vibrancy.
The delegation also included Bashir Ahmad Rather and Qazi Tauseef, president of the Munawarabad Traders Association.
Dr Qayoom gave the delegation a patient hearing, acknowledged the concerns raised and assured the representatives that the issues would be examined. He also emphasised the importance of stakeholder participation in improving civic administration.
KTMF welcomed the response and expressed hope that sustained coordination with the civic administration would help resolve long-pending issues and make Srinagar cleaner, better managed and more business-friendly.
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