The scenic Polview Bund in Srinagar, once a peaceful walking path for residents and a recreational spot for nature lovers, is now facing serious degradation due to the reckless use of the bund by motorcycle riders. Residents and environmental activists have raised serious concerns and are urging the government to step in before the damage becomes irreversible.
Polview Bund was developed as a pedestrian-friendly pathway, meant to promote eco-friendly recreation and non-motorized movement. However, in recent months, a growing number of local motorcycle riders have turned the bund into an unofficial shortcut, riding across its narrow trails with little regard for safety, environmental impact, or the original purpose of the path.
"This bund was meant for walking, cycling, and enjoying nature—not for stunts or high-speed biking," said Ghulam Rasool, a resident ."These bikers have not only damaged the surface of the bund but also made it unsafe for children and elderly people who come here to walk."
Local residents say that despite repeated complaints to municipal authorities and the police, no concrete steps have been taken to restrict motorcycle access or to monitor the area. The absence of barriers at entry points and lack of regular patrolling has emboldened riders, many of whom use the bund during early morning or late `
"In the mornings, it’s like a racing track," said Farah Jan, a university student and daily walker. "We fear someone will get injured one day. It defeats the whole purpose of having a safe, car-free zone for the community."
Environmentalists warn that beyond the surface-level damage, the bund’s soil structure and green cover are also at risk. The vibration and pressure from heavy two-wheelers may lead to soil erosion and damage the roots of trees and plants lining the bund. The bund also serves as a natural embankment, and repeated damage could compromise its ability to manage water overflow or flooding.
The issue has also drawn attention on social media, with several users posting images and videos of bikers on the bund. These posts have sparked public outrage, with many tagging local authorities and demanding immediate enforcement measures.
Officials from the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) and Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL) have acknowledged the issue and say measures are being considered. “We are aware of the misuse of Polview Bund and are in consultation with the police and traffic department to restrict vehicle access,” said a senior SMC official, requesting anonymity. “Installing bollards, fencing vulnerable entry points, and placing surveillance cameras are some of the steps under review.”
Citizens are urging the administration to act swiftly. "Let this not become another case of urban negligence," said Bashir Ahmad, a local schoolteacher. "If we lose our public spaces to such misuse, we will be the ones to blame."
As Srinagar moves towards becoming a more sustainable and pedestrian-friendly city under the Smart City Mission, preserving vital green and recreational spaces like the Polview Bund is becoming ever more critical.