Pulwama: Senior Congress leader Umer Jaan, has raised strong objections to the proposed railway line project passing through Pulwama, Rajpora, Tral, and Pampore, stating that it threatens the economic survival of thousands of families dependent on horticulture and agriculture.
Addressing concerns of local residents, Umer Jaan said the people of these areas are deeply disturbed over the manner in which the project is being pushed forward without adequate safeguards for farmers and landowners. He warned that in its present form, the railway project poses a direct threat to Kashmir’s economic backbone apple orchards and fertile agricultural land.
“Generations of farmers in these regions have sustained their families and contributed significantly to the economy of Jammu and Kashmir. Any development that weakens this lifeline will result in economic distress, unemployment, and irreversible damage to rural society,” he said.
Clarifying that the public is not opposed to development, the Congress leader stressed that people strongly resist projects that ignore ground realities, local consent, and the long term impact on livelihoods. “Development must be inclusive, humane, and protective of livelihoods, not destructive,” he added.
Umer Jaan urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to immediately take up the issue with the Ministry of Railways and ensure that the concerns of affected communities are heard and resolved. He emphasized that no project should proceed without proper rehabilitation, fair compensation, and assured alternative livelihood options.
“The voice of Pulwama, Rajpora, Tral, and Pampore must not be ignored. The people demand justice, transparency, and protection of their land and livelihoods,” he asserted.
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