Srinagar, July 15 -- Speaking at the inauguration of a new 120-bed building at the Bone and Joint Hospital in Srinagar, the Chief Minister said the recent hour-long rainfall had exposed the poor condition of city roads. "I wonder where the funds allocated over the years have gone," he remarked. "As head of the Housing and Urban Development Department, I have asked for a thorough study on waterlogging so we can develop a detailed project to address it and truly make Srinagar a Smart City."

Abdullah admitted that part of the problem lies in governance itself. "We are also at fault for not enforcing guidelines strictly and neglecting road maintenance," he said.

Underscoring the importance of strong public services, Abdullah said infrastruc...