Centre Halts Three Proposed Railway Projects in Kashmir Amid Land, Orchard Concerns – Alfaaz – The Words

Srinagar: The Centre on Tuesday said it has put on hold three proposed railway projects in Kashmir after local residents and elected representatives raised objections over extensive land acquisition and the likely impact on apple orchards.

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said that Kashmir already has an operational railway line connecting Srinagar and Baramulla, and proposals had been received for three additional rail links. However, the Jammu and Kashmir government and Members of Parliament flagged serious concerns, noting that the proposed alignments would significantly affect horticultural land, particularly apple orchards.

In view of these objections, the Centre has decided to keep the projects in abeyance, the minister said, adding that the concerns raised by stakeholders were taken into account.

The move comes against the backdrop of protests by apple growers and residents in Pulwama, Shopian and Anantnag districts, who have been opposing the projects over fears of damage to agricultural and horticultural land and possible displacement of families.