Bandipora, Feb 12: A 1.5 km road stretch in Benlipora, Aloosa, in north Kashmir’s Bandipora constructed under the NABARD scheme, remains incomplete even after a year, causing severe inconvenience to locals.
The road, which connects the PMGSY Road at Halmatpora to Ziyarat Hasrat Sultan-ul-Aarifeen Benlipora, was expected to improve connectivity, but its slow progress has left residents frustrated. Locals have accused the Roads & Buildings (R&B) Department of negligence, stating that despite repeated appeals, officials have failed to address their concerns.
“We have approached the R&B department multiple times, but they seem indifferent to our issues. No one takes this problem seriously,” said Ghulam Nabi Lone, a resident. Others echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the difficulties they face due to the incomplete road.
“The road was meant to ease travel, but it has turned into a major inconvenience. During rain and snow, vehicles struggle to move, and pedestrians find it nearly impossible to walk,” said Aijaz Ahmad, another resident. Sajad Ahmad Lone pointed out the road’s poor condition during bad weather, urging authorities to expedite construction. “Neither cars nor people can navigate this road properly when it rains. We request the authorities to complete it as soon as possible,” he said.
Locals also questioned the delay in completing a short 1.5 km stretch. “This project should not have taken this long. The delay reflects the inefficiency of the R&B department,” said Umar Farooq, expressing his frustration. Responding to public outcry, Mohammad Hussain, Executive Engineer, R&B Division Bandipora, acknowledged the delay but attributed it to winter-related work stoppages.
“Fifty percent of the work on Benlipora Road has been completed. Due to winter, construction was officially halted, but it will resume within the next two or three days,” he assured. Despite these assurances, locals remain skeptical and are demanding immediate action to complete the long-pending project.
