An open pit along the National Highway at Khawkabagh in Baramulla has emerged as a serious safety hazard, with residents alleging that the excavation has been left unattended for several months without any explanation from the authorities.
The pit, dug on both sides of the highway, remains uncovered or warning signage, posing a constant threat to motorists and pedestrians.
The commuters say no official has clarified why the stretch was excavated or why the work has remained incomplete for such a long period.
According to locals, the open trench has already caused multiple accidents. In the latest incident, a scooty rider reportedly lost control and fell into the drain, sustaining injuries.
Residents fear that the poorly protected excavation could result in a major tragedy, particularly during the night when visibility is low. “The drain has become a death trap. Every day commuters narrowly escape accidents. We fail to understand why it has been left open for months,” said Bashir Ahmad Dar, a local resident.
The issue has also affected the movement of pedestrians, schoolchildren and elderly residents, who are forced to navigate the hazardous stretch daily.
Locals have appealed to the concerned authorities to immediately complete the pending work or securely cover the drain and install proper safety barriers and reflective warning signs until the project is finished.
About The Author
