KTA delegation meets Div Com, flags trade, infrastructure, LPG supply issues

Srinagar, Apr 7: A delegation of the Kashmir Trade Alliance (KTA) on Tuesday called on Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg, to discuss a range of pressing issues concerning the business and trading community across the Valley.

The delegation comprised representatives from affiliated bodies, including the Habba Kadal Traders Federation, Rambagh Traders Federation, and the LPG Counter Operators Welfare Union, along with several prominent members of the trade fraternity.

KTA President Aijaz Shahdhar thanked the Divisional Commissioner for giving a patient hearing to the concerns raised. He said a key issue discussed was the long-pending demand to make the old Habba Kadal bridge motorable to ease traffic congestion and facilitate smoother movement for traders and commuters.

The delegation highlighted that the halt in vehicular movement on the old Habba Kadal bridge has adversely affected the livelihoods of nearly 400 shopkeepers. The Divisional Commissioner assured that necessary action would be taken in this regard.

The members also raised concerns over the installation of road dividers from Natipora to Rambagh, stating that these have been causing inconvenience to traders and impacting business activity. The Divisional Commissioner assured that the matter would be examined and appropriate measures taken.

Highlighting another critical issue, the delegation flagged a shortage of domestic LPG in Srinagar, attributed to the prevailing West Asia crisis. Representatives of the LPG Counter Operators Welfare Union informed the administration that the suspension of LPG cylinder supplies for over a month has severely impacted their livelihoods.

They said authorised LPG counters, operating under an OTP-based distribution system, had been ensuring timely delivery of cylinders. However, the abrupt disruption in supply, reportedly due to broader supply chain issues, has left hundreds of operators without work, pushing them into financial distress. The delegation urged immediate intervention to restore regular supplies.

The KTA also stressed the urgent need for maintenance and repair of damaged Smart City projects in various commercial areas, stating that the deteriorating infrastructure poses risks to pedestrians and negatively affects the business environment.

The Divisional Commissioner assured the delegation that all issues raised would be addressed on priority, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to safeguarding the interests of the trading community.

Among those present were Maninder Singh Bhasin, Mohd Yunis, Sajad Hyder, Imtiyaz Ahmad, Ajaz Ahmad Bisati, Tariq Amin Mir, M. Yousuf Sofi, Zahoor Ahmad Bisati, Niyaz Ahmed Khan, Mohd Shaban, Reyaz Ahmad Sheikh, Abdul Majid, and Javid Khan.