Three railway projects in Jammu and Kashmir have been put on hold by the central government, according to a report by Greater Kashmir.
The decision, reportedly made by the Ministry of Defence, affects three proposed railway lines spanning a total distance of approximately 137 kilometers. These projects were initially sanctioned in 2020 as part of the government’s efforts to improve connectivity and infrastructure in the region. The lines were slated to connect Banihal to Qazigund, Banihal to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi, and Qazigund to Banihal.
The reasons cited for the halt are primarily security concerns, stemming from the ongoing unrest and security challenges in the Kashmir Valley. Sources within the Ministry of Defence indicate that a recent security assessment highlighted the potential risks associated with the construction and operation of these railway lines in the current environment. The assessment reportedly raised questions about the vulnerability of the infrastructure to potential disruptions and the logistical difficulties involved in ensuring its safety and security.
The projects, valued at a combined cost of around ₹ 16,000 crore (approximately $2 billion USD), were expected to significantly boost economic activity and connectivity in the region. They were envisioned to reduce travel time between Jammu and Kashmir, facilitating trade and tourism. The railway lines were also intended to provide a reliable and efficient transportation network for the movement of goods and people.
Greater Kashmir reports that the Ministry of Defence has communicated its decision to the Jammu and Kashmir government. The state government is expected to raise concerns about the impact of the cancellation on the region’s development and connectivity. Officials are now exploring alternative strategies to achieve the government’s goals of improving infrastructure in Kashmir, potentially focusing on less sensitive routes or employing enhanced security measures.
The decision has drawn criticism from some quarters, with analysts suggesting that it could hinder the region’s economic progress. However, the Ministry of Defence maintains that security remains the paramount concern, and that any infrastructure development must be undertaken with due consideration to the prevailing security situation. The long-term implications of this decision are yet to be seen, but it underscores the complex challenges facing the Indian government in its efforts to develop the Kashmir Valley.
The cancellation follows a period of heightened security concerns in the region, with ongoing protests and occasional security incidents. The government’s response to these challenges has often involved a cautious approach, prioritizing security over rapid development. This latest decision reflects that approach, highlighting the delicate balance between infrastructure development and maintaining stability in a volatile region.
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