Ganderbal, Nov 23: Residents of various areas in the Ganderbal district, particularly in Gagangeer, have long been calling for the establishment of banking facilities, including an ATM and a bank branch unit, in their locality. Despite Gagangeer being a popular tourist destination with huge footfall, the area lacks essential financial infrastructure, causing great inconvenience to both locals and tourists alike.
Locals have expressed frustration over the frequent difficulties caused by the absence of banking services. “Tourists often struggle when they need cash, and residents have to travel long distances just to access basic banking services,” a resident of Gagangeer said.
Acknowledging the gravity of the issue, Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Kangan, Mian Mehar Ali recently took the matter up with the top leadership of J&K Bank. In a meeting with Baldev Prakash, Managing Director and CEO of J&K Bank, the MLA discussed the pressing concerns of the constituency.
During the meeting, the MLA submitted a written memorandum highlighting the demand for banking facilities in several key areas, including Chountiwaliwar, Watlar, Anderwan, Haripora, Kangan Main Market, Ganiwan and Gagangeer.
Mehar Ali called for the urgent need to establish ATMs and bank branches, especially in tourist hotspots like Gagangeer, to alleviate the hardships faced by both the local population and the tourists who frequent the area.
Baldev Prakash assured that the issues raised would be prioritised and addressed immediately. The assurance has brought hope to the residents of Gagangeer and other areas in the Kangan constituency, who are optimistic that their long-standing demands for basic banking facilities will soon be met.
