Construction on the Kharpora–Shabanbass–Ratan Bass link road in Banihal, which had been stalled for nearly fifteen years, has finally resumed thanks to decisive administrative intervention.
The revival of work brings hope for improved connectivity for hundreds of residents in the area. However, unresolved compensation issues continue to linger, casting a shadow over the project.
This road plays a vital role in connecting remote communities along the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway corridor. Since its launch in 2010, the road had remained incomplete, causing hardships for the locals.
Administrative delays, lack of coordination, and failure to compensate affected landowners led to the abandonment of the project by the Public Works Department (PWD), leaving the communities without proper access for years.
History of the Project
The project was initiated in 2010 with the aim of connecting Kharpora, Shabanbass, and Ratanbass through a six-kilometer all-weather road. Despite significant progress by 2015, the road was never linked to the National Highway, rendering it non-functional.
Locals attribute the prolonged halt to the non-payment of compensation to landowners affected by the construction. This led to an abrupt stop in work with no resolution pursued for years.
Administrative Intervention
Recent construction activities were resumed after the intervention of Deputy Commissioner Ramban Mohammad Ilyas Khan, Sub-Divisional Magistrate Banihal Mohammad Naseeb, and Tehsildar Banihal Amjad Talib Keen. The efforts have been well received by the residents, who see it as a long-overdue acknowledgment of their grievances.
BJP leader Mohammad Saleem Bhat credited MP and MoS in PMO Dr Jitendra Singh and the district administration for prioritizing the stalled project. He also called for a comprehensive review of other incomplete road projects in Banihal.
Compensation Issues
Despite the renewed construction, affected landowners are still waiting for justice. Nearly 56 kanals of privately owned land, including fruit-bearing orchards, were damaged during excavation. The lack of proper compensation has caused economic distress for several families.
One landowner, Alyas Ahmed Itoo, highlighted the inadequate compensation released so far and the remaining amount owed to the landowners. Appeals to various authorities have yielded little more than assurances without concrete action.
Community Concerns
Locals stress the need for timely compensation, adequate funding, and strict monitoring to complete the road and restore public trust. The completion of the Kharpora–Shabanbass road would greatly improve access to education, healthcare, and markets in the area.
Clearing Pending Compensation
AEE PWD Sub Division Banihal, Mohammad Arif, mentioned that a significant amount of compensation was sanctioned, but only a fraction has been disbursed to the affected landowners. The pending amount will now be cleared under the State Sector, ensuring that the project moves forward smoothly.
