Srinagar, Dec 18 (KNO): Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Wednesday launched a scathing attack on the government during a press conference, accusing it of destroying the region's unique identity and natural resources through large-scale infrastructure projects.
Mufti, while speaking to the media as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), highlighted three major projects—the Rajouri-Baramulla Highway, the Ring Road project from Galandar to Ganderbal, and railway expansion projects—claiming they are causing extensive damage to agricultural land, forests, and water resources.
She alleged that these projects, under the guise of development, were resulting in large-scale deforestation, displacement of farmers, and depletion of water levels.
“Jammu and Kashmir’s identity is tied to its natural beauty, environment, and unique cultural heritage. These projects are putting tremendous pressure on our environment, destroying lakhs of kanals of agricultural land and forests,” she said.
Expressing her support for development, Mehbooba said that it should not come at the cost of the region's scenic beauty, agriculture, horticulture sectors, and livelihood.
Citing examples from other regions, Mufti expressed fears of ecological disasters similar to those in Joshimath, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. “They are making decisions without considering the long-term impacts. Mining is already lowering water levels, leaving orchards and farms without irrigation,” she stated.
Compensation & Township Projects
Mufti also criticized the government for offering meager compensation to farmers affected by these projects. Referring to the Ring Road project, she pointed out that landowners were given outdated rates far below the current market value. She accused the authorities of exploiting laws to deprive people of fair compensation.
On the proposed establishment of 30 satellite townships requiring over 1.2 lakh kanals of agricultural land, Mufti questioned the government’s motives.
She said if they have township plans, they should focus on upgrading the villages instead of such projects. “Who are these townships for? Why is agricultural land being taken away from our farmers when they can't even build homes or shops in these areas due to restrictive regulations?” she asked.
Criticism of Railway Expansion
The former chief minister expressed strong concern about the expansion of the Baramulla-Banihal railway line and other routes to tourist destinations like Pahalgam. She warned that these projects would devastate fertile land in key districts, including Pulwama, Baramulla, and Ganderbal.
“During militancy, when everything else failed, our horticulture and handicrafts kept our economy alive. Destroying our agricultural base now will be catastrophic for our future,” Mufti cautioned.
Mufti urged the opposition to hold the government accountable for its environmental and economic policies. She stressed that while larger constitutional issues may take time to resolve, immediate steps should be taken to protect the region's natural resources and livelihoods.
“Jammu and Kashmir’s unique identity and prosperity depend on its land, water, and forests. This government must stop its policies and prioritize the welfare of local farmers and the environment,” she said—(KNO)