KINS DESK
Srinagar, Dec 04 (KINS): National Conference MP, Syed Aga Ruhullah Mehdi, today raised critical concerns in the Lok Sabha over the proposed railway line connecting Anantnag, Bijbehara, and Pahalgam in South Kashmir. Mehdi urged the Union Government to conduct a thorough social impact assessment before proceeding with the project, highlighting the need to comply with the Land Acquisition Act’s legal requirements.
In his address, Mehdi stressed that the law mandates prior public notice and a comprehensive social impact study before any land acquisition takes place. He questioned whether these necessary steps had been followed for the railway project, pointing out the lack of communication and an adequate evaluation of its potential impact on the local community.
The National Conference leader further raised doubts about the necessity of the railway line, stating that there had been no significant demand from the people for such infrastructure. He expressed concern that the project would disrupt over 210 hectares of fertile agricultural and horticultural land, which sustains the livelihoods of approximately 23% of the local population.
“People are protesting because their livelihoods are at risk,” Mehdi said. “This project could severely harm the agricultural economy of the region, and it is crucial that we fully understand its consequences before proceeding.”
Mehdi urged the Union Railway Minister to intervene and provide clarity on the necessity of the railway line. He called for a comprehensive social impact assessment to ensure the well-being of the affected communities. The proposed project has sparked protests among locals who fear the loss of agricultural land vital for their livelihoods. Mehdi’s intervention reflects growing concerns about the long-term impact on the rural population of South Kashmir. (KINS)
NC MP Ruhullah Mehdi calls for social impact assessment on Anantnag-Bijbehara-Pahalgam Railway project Seeks Union Railway Minister’s intervention, demands prior notice, people SI assessment
