Sopore, Jan 01: Senior Vice President of J&K Peoples Conference and former minister, Abdul Gani Vakil, on Monday accused the UT administration of neglecting the issues faced by residents in the far-flung areas of the valley, particularly in the upper belt of Rafiabad.
During his tour of the upper belt, which included villages like Shalkoot, Naribal, Braman, Brandub, and Wuhlatura, Vakil highlighted the pressing need for development in the region.
He said the people in the upper belt of Rafiabad are grappling with challenges such as electricity shortages, drinking water scarcity, and, most importantly, deplorable road conditions. The PC leader called for a concerted effort to improve road connectivity, enhance medical facilities, and conduct a special police recruitment drive in these areas, considering the prevailing poverty and backwardness.
Addressing the youth of the region, Vakil expressed his disappointment, saying that while they possess significant talent, opportunities are lacking due to neglect from both the LG administration and the Central government. He highlighted the absence of the Back to Village program’s five phases in the area as a surprising oversight.
The former minister urged the government to direct concerned departments, especially Roads and Buildings (R&B), Health, and Power Development Department (PDD), to rectify the issues in the upper belt of Rafiabad. He called for immediate attention to road macadamization, regular power supply, and drinking water facilities, essential for the well-being of the underprivileged population in the area.
