Electoral Crossroads:Ganderbal calls for reform in tourism, power, & infrastructure

Ganderbal, Aug 31: As the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Elections approach after a decade-long hiatus, voters in Ganderbal are clamouring for a leader who will tackle their pressing issues head-on. The elections, set for September 18, September 25, and October 1, have reignited hopes for significant improvements in the constituency’s infrastructure and public services.
Ganderbal, a picturesque region with untapped tourism potential, faces a myriad of challenges. Residents, many of whom are engaged in the tourism or mining sectors, are eager for a representative who will champion the development of local tourist attractions. Mohammad Raja, a local, expressed frustration with the lack of efforts by the Tourism Department.
“The area’s tourism potential remains underutilized,” he said. “We need a leader who can promote and develop our tourist spots.”
Power struggles also plague Ganderbal. A 93 MW Power Project initiated 26 years ago remains incomplete, and residents are still grappling with frequent electricity shortages and exorbitant bills, sometimes as high as ₹1,300 a month. Despite housing major power plants, the district faces inadequate electricity supply, particularly during the harsh winter months. Locals are calling for the new government to reduce power fees and address the persistent issues with smart meters.
Unemployment is another critical issue. Many educated youth in Ganderbal are struggling to find jobs, and locals are urging for a concrete job policy. The ongoing multi-croreZojila Tunnel project in Baltal has not prioritized local talent, exacerbating the unemployment crisis. Young voters, like Javid Ahmad, are hopeful that the upcoming elections will bring fresh faces and a renewed focus on job creation.
Safe drinking water is yet another concern. Despite the region’s abundant water resources, many residents still face inadequate water supply and poor drainage systems. Zainul Din, a local resident, highlighted the worsening situation due to heavy rains, which have led to flooding in various areas.
Healthcare facilities in Ganderbal, particularly in Kangan, Tehsil Headquarters Gund, Kullan, and Ganiwan, are under-equipped and lack essential amenities. The absence of properly equipped ambulances has further strained the already inadequate healthcare infrastructure. Locals are calling for immediate upgrades to primary healthcare facilities to prevent further hardships.
Infrastructure development is also a significant concern. The incomplete R&B link road connecting FrawHaknar with Gund has been a source of inconvenience for 12 years. Residents are frustrated with the slow progress and are seeking a leader who will prioritize the completion of critical infrastructure projects.
As Ganderbal prepares to vote, the community is unified in its desire for a representative who will address their fundamental needs, including better healthcare, improved education, reliable electricity, and effective water management. The upcoming elections are seen as a crucial opportunity to bring about the change the constituency desperately needs.