Residents of several localities in Baramulla, Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, have expressed deep resentment over the authorities’ plan to route the Baramulla–Uri railway alignment through densely populated residential areas, warning that the move will uproot hundreds of families. According to Kashmir Media Service, the proposed alignment cuts through Jetty, Khawajabagh, Sherwani Colony, Gutiyar, Ushkara and other established colonies, some dating back more than six decades.

Locals said Baramulla has limited land and alternative routes should have been explored instead of targeting residential settlements. Daljit Singh, President of the Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee Baramulla, said it was “unfortunate that the railway department finalised this alignment without consulting residents,” adding that most of the families are retired employees who cannot rebuild homes at this stage of life. 

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) also voiced concern, with District President Mohammad Rafique Rather saying the project will cause displacement, safety hazards and environmental damage. He said residents’ repeated appeals had been ignored by the authorities.  Locals urged the government to reconsider the plan and adopt an alternative alignment that spares their homes and safeguards the town’s composite culture.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)