As monsoon clouds loom large over Jammu, the city’s residents brace not just for heavy rains but also for the worsening nightmare that is the condition of its roads. From pothole-ridden main roads to waterlogged inner lanes, the capital city of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir paints a dismal picture of civic neglect and administrative apathy. Over the past several months, citizens across different wards—from Gandhi Nagar to Janipur, Jewel Chowk to Bantalab—have been raising concerns about the crumbling road infrastructure. What were once minor cracks have now turned into dangerous craters. These are not just inconveniences; they pose serious risks to commuters, especially two-wheeler riders and pedestrians. Despite tall claims of smart city development, the basic prerequisite of good, motorable roads remains unmet. The issue becomes all the more pressing with the onset of monsoon. Poorly maintained roads will soon turn into traps of slush and stagnant water. Drainage is either missing or choked in several areas, leading to the perennial problem of urban flooding. This not only disrupts daily life but also raises the threat of water-borne diseases. Meanwhile, the authorities continue to shuffle papers and float tenders while the public suffers. What is most frustrating is the lack of coordination between various departments. Roads are often dug up for laying cables or pipelines and left unrepaired for months. Even newly macadamized roads begin to wear out with just one spell of rain, raising serious questions on the quality of work and accountability of contractors. Jammu, with its strategic importance and expanding population, deserves better infrastructure. Civic planning should not wait for disasters to happen. The administration must prioritize immediate repairs and implement long-term, weather-resistant roadwork. Smart cities cannot be built on broken roads. The time for token patchwork is over. Before the monsoon turns city travel into a nightmare, the administration must act—swiftly and sincerely.
