Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Apr 14: The Jammu and Kashmir People’s Democratic Party (PDP) today strongly criticized the Union Government and the administration of the Union Territory for rejecting two major infrastructure projects, the Singhpora-Vailoo and Sudhmahadev-Dranga tunnels. Both the tunnels were proposed to enhance connectivity in the mountainous and underdeveloped districts of Doda and Kishtwar.
In a statement issued today, senior PDP leader and former legislator Firdous Tak said, “The decision by the Public Investment Board (PIB) to turn down the proposals was a “betrayal” of the aspirations of the people living in these remote areas. These tunnels are not just construction projects; they are essential for the socio-economic upliftment of Doda and Kishtwar. Without all-weather road access, the region remains cut off for months, isolating people and obstructing education, healthcare and trade.”
“The tunnels were long recognized by previous PDP-led Governments. It was the late Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, who first envisioned these tunnels as a transformative step to connect the Chenab Valley with the Kashmir Valley and rest of Jammu division. His Government initiated key surveys and brought the issue to the national planning forum,” he said.
He said, “The state BJP leadership and the National Conference, which is part of the present governance framework are equally responsible. They failed to lobby effectively for the interests of the Chenab Valley. Both parties remained silent spectators while the Union Government shelved projects that are critical for this region’s development.”
“Today, 33 tunnels are being talked about by the Centre for J&K. Fifteen have already been completed. Yet, two of the most essential ones for Doda and Kishtwar are left out. It’s clear where the priorities lie-and sadly, Chenab Valley is not on that list,” he added.
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