National Conference MP Supports Villagers in Opposing Proposed Bijbehara–Pahalgam Railway Line
In a show of solidarity with villagers opposing the proposed Bijbehara–Pahalgam railway line, National Conference Member of Parliament (MP) Mian Altaf assured the residents that he would take up the matter in Parliament and with the Railway Ministry. Speaking to the villagers in Wularhama village, Altaf emphasized that there is no valid reason for extending the railway line to Pahalgam, as it does not serve any significant purpose for tourism, the Amarnath Yatra, defense, or the state government.
One of the main concerns raised by Altaf was the potential threat to orchards and paddy fields, which are vital to the local economy. Expressing his appeal to the Lieutenant Governor and Chief Minister, Altaf urged them to address the issue with the Government of India.
Accompanied by local legislator Altaf Kaloo, the MP highlighted the surveys conducted by railway authorities in villages along the proposed route, including Joibal-Veeri, Dirhama, and Wularhama. This has sparked widespread concern among residents who fear the loss of their ancestral lands that have sustained their families for generations.
Despite assurances from political leaders, residents remain apprehensive as surveys continue in the area. MLA Bijbehara Bashir Ahmad Veeri and a senior leader of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party have also visited the affected villages to assure residents of their support.
Alongside the Bijbehara–Pahalgam project, another railway line between Awantipora and Shopian has been proposed, raising similar concerns among locals. Addressing the gathering, Altaf pledged to take forward the villagers’ concerns at the highest level by engaging with the Railway Ministry and raising the issue in Parliament.
Altaf also laid the foundation stones for several developmental projects in the Pahalgam constituency, highlighting the importance of sustainable development in the region.
As the debate surrounding the proposed railway lines continues, the villagers remain steadfast in their opposition, emphasizing the need to protect their livelihoods and ancestral lands from potential encroachment.
