In a stark example of civic negligence, hundreds of plastic bottles were pulled out of clogged drains during a clean-up operation in Safakadal area of old Srinagar following heavy rainfall that inundated several lanes earlier this week.
While authorities are routinely blamed for poor drainage and flooding, the ground reality uncovered by the Urban Environmental Engineering Department (UEED) and concerned residents tells a different story—indiscriminate plastic dumping by locals is the primary culprit.
“The drainage infrastructure in old Srinagar is capable of handling rainfall, but the drains are choked with plastic waste, especially bottles, making water flow impossible,” said a UEED official involved in the operation.
The clean-up was carried out jointly by civic workers and residents after waterlogged roads and flooded homes triggered concern. Volunteers were shocked to find drains packed with mud, solid waste, and a disturbing quantity of plastic bottles.
“This isn’t about the Smart City or government inaction—this is about how we treat our surroundings,” said a local participant. “We blame the system but forget our own responsibilities.”
A shopkeeper added, “The sight of plastic bottles covered in filth is a harsh reminder that public behaviour is just as crucial as infrastructure.”
Authorities are now urging citizens to stop dumping solid waste into drainage channels and promote awareness about environmental responsibility. “Unless people change their habits, no amount of infrastructure will fix this recurring issue,” warned the UEED official.