Kashmir Trade Representative Jaan Mohammad Addresses Press Conference on Hopeful Budget, Highlights Downtown Issues Srinagar: Kashmir trade representative Jaan Mohammad held a press conference expressing hope over the recently announced Budget, while strongly highlighting long-pending civic and infrastructure issues faced by Shehar-e-Khaas (Downtown Srinagar). Addressing mediapersons, Jaan Mohammad said that the trading community has expectations that the Budget will bring relief and development to neglected areas, especially Downtown Srinagar, which has remained deprived of basic facilities for decades. He stressed the urgent need for better healthcare facilities, stating that Shehar-e-Khaas lacks adequate hospitals and medical infrastructure to cater to the dense population. “People are forced to travel long distances for basic medical treatment, which is unacceptable,” he said. The trade representative also emphasized the need for quality educational institutions, adding that improving school infrastructure in the downtown area is crucial for securing the future of the younger generation. Highlighting civic problems, Jaan Mohammad said that poor drainage systems continue to cause waterlogging during rains, badly affecting residents as well as business activities. He called for immediate modernization of the drainage network to prevent recurring losses. Parking was another major concern raised during the press conference. He said the absence of proper parking facilities in Downtown Srinagar creates daily traffic chaos and negatively impacts trade. “A well-planned parking system is essential for smooth movement and commercial growth,” he added. Jaan Mohammad urged the government to prioritize overall trade development, including support for small traders, artisans, and local businesses that form the backbone of the downtown economy. He appealed to the authorities to ensure that the Budget’s promises translate into ground-level implementation, saying meaningful development in Shehar-e-Khaas would not only improve living conditions but also revive the historic commercial importance of the area. The press conference concluded with a call for inclusive development and sustained engagement between the government and the trading community to address long-standing public and trade-related grievances.