MP Mian Altaf backs villagers opposing Bijbehara-Pahalgam rail line

Anantnag, Jan 25: National Conference Member of Parliament (MP) Mian Altaf on Sunday came out in support of villagers opposing the proposed Bijbehara–Pahalgam railway line, assuring them that the matter would be taken up in Parliament and with the Railway Ministry.

“There is no justification for taking the railway line to Pahalgam. It serves no purpose for tourism, the Yatra, defence, or the state government,” Altaf told the villagers in Wularhama village- that is one of the several villages affected by the proposed rail line.

He said the proposed rail alignment threatens orchards and paddy fields that form the backbone of the local economy.

“I appeal to the Lieutenant Governor and the Chief Minister to take up this issue with the Government of India.”

The MP was accompanied by local legislator Altaf Kaloo.

Railway authorities have conducted surveys in several villages along the proposed route, including Joibal-Veeri, Dirhama and Wularhama, prompting widespread concern among residents who fear losing land that has sustained their families for generations.

“I am hopeful that this will not happen, but we need to remain alert,” Altaf told the gathering, many of whom depend entirely on horticulture and agriculture for their livelihood.

Locals said they have been informed that Dirhama and Wularhama are being considered as halt points on the proposed rail line, which they believe would cause greater damage to these villages.

“This is our moral obligation to take forward your concerns at the highest level,” Altaf said. “I will take up the issue with the Railway Ministry and also raise it in Parliament.”

Residents said apprehension has increased as surveys continue in the area, despite repeated assurances from political leaders.

Earlier, MLA Bijbehara Bashir Ahmad Veeri and a senior leader of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party  have also visited the affected villages and assured residents of their support.

Besides the Bijbehara–Pahalgam project, another railway line has been proposed between Awantipora – Shopian, raising similar concerns among locals.

Later, Altaf laid the foundation stones of several developmental projects in the Pahalgam constituency.