Srinagar, December 25:
The Awami Itihaad Party (AIP) has said it will raise objections related to the proposed Pulwama–Shopian railway alignment with the Union Ministry of Railways, following concerns voiced by residents of several affected villages in south Kashmir.
AIP Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi said people from Babhara Kakapora, Naman, Monghama, Kangan, Ticken, Bellow, Nikas, Keegam, Nazneenpora, Trenz and nearby areas have expressed strong reservations over the railway line planned through their localities. The residents recently held a peaceful protest, fearing loss of agricultural land, orchards and livelihoods.
He clarified that the party supports development and infrastructure growth, but stressed that such projects must be people-centric and environmentally responsible. “Development should not result in the destruction of fertile land, apple orchards or the economic backbone of farming communities,” he said, adding that the concerns raised by orchardists and farmers deserve serious attention.
Inam Un Nabi urged the authorities to re-examine the proposed alignment and consider alternative routes that would reduce harm to productive land and residential areas. He also underlined the need for transparent dialogue and consultation with local residents before any final decision is taken.
The AIP spokesperson said the party would formally take up the issue with the Union Railway Minister, seeking a review of the alignment to ensure that the project progresses in a balanced, sustainable and socially sensitive manner.
He reiterated that AIP will continue to support the affected communities and pursue the matter through appropriate channels until a solution is reached that protects local livelihoods while allowing development to move forward responsibly.
