Suhail Bhat
SRINAGAR, Dec 18: Former Chief Minister and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti today demanded an independent Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) before proceeding with the proposed Rajouri-Baramulla National Highway project and new railway expansion plans in Kashmir.
Addressing a press conference at the PDP headquarters, Mufti described the projects as potentially disastrous for the region’s environment and economy.
She emphasized the need for sustainable development that does not jeopardize the livelihoods of local communities. “While we welcome infrastructure development in Jammu & Kashmir, it cannot come at the cost of our environment and the livelihoods of our people,” she said.
Mufti criticized Rs 300 crore Rajouri-Baramulla Highway project, highlighting that it cuts through eco-sensitive areas in the Pir Panjal range and pristine tourist destinations like Yousmarg, Doodhpathri, and Kellar Shadimarg. She warned that projects like this, if implemented recklessly, could lead to ecological disasters akin to Joshimath in Uttarakhand.
The project, assigned to the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), runs parallel to the existing Mughal Road. She questioned its necessity, arguing that it would duplicate connectivity efforts while causing significant environmental damage.
“We have already invested heavily in the Mughal Road to connect Poonch, Rajouri, and Shopian. What purpose does a parallel highway serve except to strain the environment and public funds?” she asked.
She said the proposed highway passes through Poonch, Shopian, Pulwama, Budgam, and Baramulla districts, could result in deforestation, land degradation, and increased landslide risks, threatening the region’s biodiversity.
Drawing comparisons to the Joshimath tragedy, Mufti stressed the dangers of unplanned infrastructure in fragile Himalayan ecosystems. “We cannot afford to repeat the mistakes of Joshimath, where unchecked development led to towns sinking and livelihoods collapsing,” she said.
She called for a transparent EIA involving local communities, environmental experts and other stakeholders to ensure informed decisions. “This project risks destroying livelihoods tied to ecotourism and horticulture in regions like Yousmarg and Doodhpathri, which are economic lifelines for thousands of families,” she warned.
Mufti also criticized the Government’s plan to build 30 satellite townships along Srinagar Ring Road, requiring around 15,000 acres of prime agricultural and horticultural land. She said the project would disproportionately affect farmers, especially in Budgam district, where 17 villages stand to lose fertile land.
Regarding railway expansion, Mufti expressed concerns over the ecological damage caused by the proposed doubling of the Baramulla-Banihal section and new lines through Shopian and Pahalgam. “While improved connectivity is important, it cannot come at the grave cost of Kashmir’s environment and livelihoods,” she said.
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