Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, Dal Lake, and Mughal-era gardens. Yet, beneath this scenic beauty lies a persistent urban challenge that continues to frustrate residents and visitors alike: the city’s worsening traffic congestion. Once known for its leisurely pace and relatively sparse traffic, Srinagar is now grappling with daily jams, reckless driving, and a lack of basic traffic management infrastructure. The surge in vehicular population is a primary contributor to this chaos. With limited public transport options, private cars, motorcycles, and taxis have become the default mode of commuting for most citizens. Narrow roads, encroached footpaths, and inadequate parking facilities exacerbate the problem, turning short trips into hours-long ordeals. The historic city, designed long before the automobile era, is struggling to accommodate modern traffic demands. Adding to the problem is a lack of proper traffic regulation and enforcement. Despite the presence of traffic police, vehicles often flout rules with impunity, resulting in gridlocks at key intersections. During peak hours, main roads like Lal Chowk, Residency Road, and Boulevard Road are frequently clogged, affecting not just commuters but also emergency services. The situation worsens during tourist season or religious events, reflecting the city’s unpreparedness for high traffic volumes. Moreover, the environmental and social costs are significant. Prolonged idling of vehicles increases air pollution, contributing to respiratory problems among residents. Noise pollution, stress, and road rage have become common, eroding the quality of urban life. Pedestrians and cyclists are particularly vulnerable, with many forced to navigate dangerously congested streets. Addressing Srinagar’s traffic woes requires urgent, multi-pronged solutions. Expanding and modernizing public transport—such as introducing city buses, shuttle services, and dedicated lanes—must be prioritized. Proper traffic management systems, including synchronized signals, one-way streets, and stricter enforcement of road rules, are equally essential. Urban planning should focus on widening key roads where feasible and creating designated parking zones to reduce roadside congestion. Public awareness campaigns encouraging responsible driving and carpooling can also make a difference. Srinagar’s charm should not be overshadowed by gridlocked roads and frustrated commuters. If the authorities act decisively now, the city can reclaim not just its aesthetic appeal but also a functional, efficient transport system that meets the demands of its growing population. Without timely intervention, however, the traffic mess will continue to frustrate residents, deter tourists, and undermine Srinagar’s potential as a modern urban center.