As the Assembly elections approach, the twin constituencies of Ganderbal and Kangan are raising their voices for significant changes, with a clear focus on addressing unemployment, improving healthcare infrastructure, and promoting tourism to uplift the local economy.
Unemployment remains a critical concern, particularly for the region’s educated youth. Many locals have called for urgent government intervention to create job opportunities. “We want the government to create avenues for employment, especially for the young graduates of Ganderbal,” said a local resident, reflecting a widespread sentiment in the region.
Healthcare is another pressing issue, with locals expressing frustration over the lack of adequate facilities. Many positions for medical and paramedical staff in local hospitals remain unfilled, impacting the quality of services. Javaid, a concerned resident, shared his dismay over the unfinished PHC Kullan building, which has been left incomplete for over a decade. “We have been demanding the completion of the PHC Kullan building for years. Unfortunately, it has become a political issue, and now the building is on the verge of collapse,” he said.
Tourism, too, holds promise for the region, but locals feel its potential remains untapped. Developing tourist spots along Nallah Sindh, which stretches from Mamer to Sonamarg, could boost the economy and provide much-needed employment. Firdose Ahmad, another resident, emphasized the importance of promoting homestay registrations for locals, stating, “Many people depend on tourism for their livelihood. If local residents are given homestay registration, it will help them earn a sustainable income.”
As the election season unfolds, the people of Ganderbal and Kangan are eager for change, hoping their concerns will be addressed by their future representatives.
