Srinagar, 05 Feb: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference South zone legislators and functionaries on Thursday welcomed the decision to put on hold the proposed railway projects connecting Anantnag to Pahalgam and Anantnag to Shopian, describing it as a decisive victory for the people of South Kashmir.
In a joint statement, the party’s legislators and senior leaders Sakina Itoo, Altaf Ahmad Wani, Dr. Bashir Ahmad Veeri, Adv. Reyaz Ahmad Khan, Abdul Majid Bhat Larmi, Ghulam Mohiudin Mir, Showkat Hussain Ganaie, Hasnain Masoodi, Pirzada Faroz Ahmad, Muhammad Khalil Bandh and Sheikh Muhammad Rafi lauded the proactive leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and senior party MPs, especially Mian Altaf Ahmad, for standing firmly with the people and safeguarding the economic lifeline of the region.
They stated that the decision reflects the National Conference’s unwavering commitment to protecting public interests, local livelihoods and the invaluable apple orchards that sustain thousands of families.
They highlighted that the proposed railway lines had triggered deep anxiety among residents, particularly apple growers whose orchards form the backbone of South Kashmir’s rural economy.
They emphasised that the apple orchards of Anantnag, Shopian, and surrounding areas are not only a source of income but also a symbol of heritage, resilience and economic stability for Kashmir. The party leaders stressed that development should not come at the cost of farmers, orchardists, or future generations.
They reaffirmed the party’s commitment to pursuing all developmental initiatives only after meaningful consultation with stakeholders and with full respect for environmental sustainability and the welfare of the people.