“Aijaz Asad Takes Immediate Action on Muharram Grievances Raised by Mudasir Karim, Ensuring a Smooth and Reverent Observance”
Srinagar, [16 Jul 2023] – District Commissioner Srinagar Aijaz Asad, an esteemed member of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), demonstrated his commitment to ensuring a harmonious and well-organized Muharram Ul Haram by conducting a comprehensive review of the preparations. During his visit to the Imam Bargah Zadibal, where prominent Shia representatives were present, Mr. Asad attentively listened to the concerns raised by the President of the Youth Jammu And Kashmir Peoples Conference (YJKPC), Mudasir Karim.
The meeting shed light on several grievances that require immediate attention to facilitate the seamless functioning of Majlises and processions during the sacred occasion of Muharram Ul Haram. Mudasir Karim highlighted series of pressing issues that demanded quick resolution to ensure the seamless functioning of Majlises and processions during the auspicious occasion of Muharram Ul Haram. Among the concerns raised were the deplorable condition of the route from Alipora (Botaqadal) to Madin Sahab (Hawal), where a choked deep drain emitted a foul smell due to stagnant water. Additionally, the broken metallic covers of overground drains from Baba Mazaar to Imam Bargah Zadibal/Mir Shamsudin Iraqi Asthan posed a threat to mourners, leading to injuries. Recognizing the urgency of these issues, the District Commissioner (DC) of Srinagar, Aijaz Asad, took immediate action to address them on the spot.
During the meeting, Mudasir Karim drew attention to several other crucial matters that required swift resolution. These included the need for relocation of existing massive pipes in the area to improve drainage systems, immediate black topping and pothole filling on several roads frequently used by mourners, identification and protection of low-lying electric cables, and grass cutting, sanitation, and light repairs at major imam bargahs and mosques where daily Majlises would take place. Karim also stressed the requirement for additional dumpers in Shia-dominated areas to ensure timely clearance of waste generated by regular niyaz events.
Among the issues brought to light, the foremost concern was the pressing water scarcity problem in Baghwanpora. Recognizing the urgency, the Department of Jal Shakti was directed to prioritize the matter and find immediate solutions to ensure access to clean and reliable water sources. Additionally, the drainage issue near HDFC bank, which posed a significant challenge during major processions, received attention, with plans put in place for its redressal. The Department of SMC was entrusted with the task of de-slitting overground drains to ensure smooth procession routes & additional quota for Rice and sugar in shia dominated areas and firewood used for various Niyaz events.
The DC recognized the potential dangers posed by unstable wooden bridges in the Dal area and directed the concerned departments, LAWDA and SMC, to undertake necessary repairs to prevent any accidents during the processions. The JK Traffic Police was also instructed to reassess the closure of junctions in Shia-dominated areas, ensuring smooth traffic diversion during procession days.
Furthermore DC directed FCSCA to address the issue and directed Forest Department to Provide Firewood to the shia dominated areas where events like niyaz are to be held.These immediate actions showcase the administration’s commitment to addressing the grievances and ensuring the safety and well-being of the residents.
Impressed by the gravity of the issues raised by Mudasir Karim for various Imam Bargah’s like Imam Bargah Zadibal, Mir Shamsudin Iraqi Shrine, Imam Bargah Nabdipora, Masjid E Eidah (Alamgari Bazaar), Khomeini Hall (Mohallah Syed Afzal), Imam Bargah Madin Sahab, Imam Bargah Gulshan Bagh, Imam Bargah Bagwanpora, Imam Bargah Wani Mohallah, Imam Bargah Hassanabad, Imam Bargah Bemina, Imam Bargah Chattabal, Bagh E Zainab (Nishat) etc. DC Aijaz Asad immediately took charge and assured the community that each concern would be effectively addressed. With a proactive approach, the DC swiftly coordinated efforts between multiple departments, including the Urban Environmental Engineering Department (UEED), (NHPC), Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), Jammu and Kashmir Power Development Corporation Limited (JKPDCL), and others, to initiate the necessary actions.
The visit proved to be a significant turning point as DC Srinagar addressed several pressing issues on the spot, providing much-needed relief to the community. The visit not only resolved immediate concerns but also paved the way for long-term improvements, such as establishing a helpline number for Muharram-related grievances and ensuring proper facilities and supplies for medical emergencies.