Ramban, Aug 18: Fairoz Khan, Congress leader, former National President of NSUI, and former Working President of Youth Congress J&K, continued his extensive tour of the Panchayats, visiting the villages of Halla, Jatgali A, Draman, and Garhi.
During his visit, Khan, according to a statement issued here, engaged with the local community, listened to their concerns and discussed pressing issues affecting their daily lives, including rural development, infrastructure, and access to essential services. He reaffirmed his commitment to addressing these challenges and assured residents that he would raise their grievances with the relevant authorities.
In Halla, the lack of a consistent water supply in Seri Hall was a major concern, along with a shortage of staff and lecturers at the Higher Secondary School. In Sildhar and other panchayats, residents reported receiving electricity bills without accurate meter readings, he said.
He said locals highlighted that new ration cards have not been issued in over 10 years, old-age pensions have been discontinued, and the Naibat office, which was sanctioned for Halla, is instead situated in Karol. Khan promised to advocate strongly for relocating the Naibat office to Halla, as originally planned, and to fight for the community’s rights without leaving any stone unturned. He acknowledged the absence of a proper playground and a Primary Health Centre (PHC) in the village.
In Nowshee, Fairoz said, locals raised concerns about the lack of electricity poles, with wires dangerously tied to trees and structures. They also demanded the resumption of the SRTC bus service from Karol to Garhi, which had been discontinued for unknown reasons. The poor condition of roads in the area was another concern, with locals urging for repairs.
There is a need for a bridge at Garhi, which connects to the High School Kumet near the Chinar tree, he said, adding that during rains there is a danger to students and the public.
The halted work on the 29-kilometer Karol to Kumet road project under PMGSY was highlighted as a major issue. Although 26 kilometres of the road have been completed, 3 kilometres remain unfinished, despite land acquisition having been completed years ago, he added.
In Jatgali A, residents expressed frustration with the irregular presence of the Tehsil Supply Officer (TSO), who only visits once a month, causing delays in essential services, the Congress leader said. He brought this issue directly to the Director of Food and Supplies Department, who assured that it would be resolved by Monday.
Several individuals from the community joined the Congress, pledging their full support to Fairoz Khan and the party’s vision, Khan said.
