SRINAGAR, Dec 2:
A collective of farmers in Anantnag district has requested that the Jammu and Kashmir Government reconsider its plans for a railway line linking the district headquarters to Pahalgam, which serves as the base camp for the annual Amarnath Yatra.
Ghulam Nabi, a local farmer, expressed concern, stating, “If the railway line from Anantnag to Pahalgam is constructed, it will convert hundreds of acres of fertile agricultural land into wasteland. This region is known for its rich soil, providing livelihoods for thousands of families.”
He further urged the government to abandon the project, warning of potential food shortages and job losses.
“The proposed railway line through Anantnag-Bijbehara-Pahalgam will traverse orchards and rice fields, jeopardizing the agrarian economy in all areas it disrupts,” he added.
Local MLA and National Conference leader Bashir Ahmad Veeri met with the concerned farmers on Sunday, assuring them that their concerns would be communicated to the relevant authorities.
“I’m unsure of the intent behind constructing this railway line. Is it to dispossess farmers or to further damage our economy? There are no industrial zones here, nor any industry in Pahalgam itself. We will not surrender our land, and we’re prepared to fight for its preservation,” Veeri pledged following the meeting.
Altaf Bukhari, President of the Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party, chimed in, stating that public sentiment is overwhelmingly against the proposed railway line.
“Residents whose properties would be affected along the proposed 77.5 km Anantnag-Bijbehara-Pahalgam rail route have begun protesting. Concerns have surged since the tender for the final location survey of the railway line was issued,” Bukhari highlighted.
“The majority of those impacted are small landowners, primarily facing the loss of orchards and agricultural fields. Experts have also voiced worries regarding the environmental consequences of the project, as it would involve laying tracks through fertile farmland and forested regions,” he added in a statement on X.
Bukhari urged that the relevant authorities engage with all stakeholders before making a decision regarding the project.
“There has never been a public demand for a railway line to Pahalgam. It is essential that authorities consult with all stakeholders before proceeding, and that no decisions are imposed on the community,” Bukhari asserted. (AGENCIES)
