Vehicles breach car-free Polo View market

Idrees Bukhtiyar
Comments 0
24 Apr 2026

Srinagar 22 April: The unauthorised vehicle parking in the pedestrian-only Polo View Market has raised fresh concerns among shoppers and traders, who say the growing violation is undermining both safety and the purpose of the car-free zone.

The market, redeveloped by the Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL), was inaugurated in May 2023 by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. At the time, it was projected as a modern, wire-free pedestrian zone aimed at transforming the commercial landscape of Lal Chowk and the adjoining areas.

However, less than a year later, the ground reality appears to diverge from that vision.

Locals and traders have raised questions over the presence of vehicles inside the pedestrian market, saying it defeats the very purpose of the project. “This was meant to be a vehicle-free zone, but now we see cars parked here regularly. It not only disrupts the aesthetic appeal but also poses a risk to pedestrians,” said a local shopkeeper in Lal Chowk.

Another trader expressed concern over the damage being caused to the infrastructure. “The tiles and street fittings were designed for foot traffic, not vehicles. We are already seeing wear and tear in several spots. If this continues, the entire project will lose its charm,” he said.

Visitors, too, echoed similar sentiments. “I had heard a lot about this upgraded market and came here expecting a peaceful walking experience. But seeing vehicles parked here is disappointing,” said Srishti, a tourist from Delhi. “It feels like poor enforcement of rules.”

Faisal Ahmad, a local resident from the Zakura area of Srinagar questioned the implementation of the pedestrian policy. “The authorities made big promises during the inauguration, comparing it to markets in Delhi and Mumbai. But if vehicles are allowed, then what’s the difference from any other market?” he asked.

Polo View market, established in 1954 by then Prime Minister Bakshi Ghulam Mohammad, was originally developed to rehabilitate shopkeepers displaced after a fire incident near Lambert Lane. Located adjacent to the historic Polo Ground, it evolved into one of Srinagar’s elite commercial hubs, known for handicrafts and premium goods.

Under the Smart City project, the market underwent a major facelift in 2023, with underground cabling, aesthetic lighting, and pedestrian-friendly pathways aimed at enhancing both functionality and visual appeal.

They have appealed to the SSCL authorities to look into the matter.

Officials of SSCL were not available for the comments.