Srinagar, Dec 05 (KNO): Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chief spokesperson Dr. Mehboob Beg on Thursday expressed serious concerns over the proposed satellite townships planned along the Ring Road project in Srinagar. He questioned the intent behind these developments and their potential beneficiaries.
Addressing a press conference, as per news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), Dr. Beg said the Ring Road project, which connects Galandar, Pampore, to Narbal, involves significant land acquisition. He questioned whether the proposed satellite townships are intended for the local populace or outsiders.
“The government, elected with a massive mandate, must answer the people. Who are these satellite townships for? What compensation will landowners receive? These are not just questions from the PDP but from the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
Calling for greater transparency, Dr. Beg demanded increased compensation for affected landowners and urged the government to act responsibly.
“Do the people of Jammu and Kashmir have any rights in these townships? Will the domicile laws be respected?” he asked.
Dr. Beg also disclosed that the Jammu and Kashmir Housing Board, through an order dated October 9, 2024, outlined plans for developing satellite townships along a 500-meter stretch on either side of the Ring Road. “This project, though presented under the guise of development, raises alarming questions about land rights, compensation, and the future of residents,” he added.
He highlighted reports suggesting that approximately 1.20 lakh kanals of land would be required for the project, much of it sourced from fertile horticultural and agricultural zones—key components of Kashmir's economy.
The government’s decision to reserve a one-kilometer-wide corridor (500 meters on each side of the road) prohibits construction, leaving landowners in a state of uncertainty.
“While compensation for land acquisition is standard practice nationally, there is no clarity here on how much compensation will be provided or whether it will be adequate,” he said.
Dr. Beg alleged that compensation rates were far below market values, with payouts reportedly as low as 20% of the actual land price. “This land is not just a source of income; it is our heritage and lifeline,” he said.
He also raised concerns about whether the proposed townships align with Srinagar’s Master Plan and existing land use policies.
“The government must clarify the objectives of these townships and ensure the protection of local residents’ rights,” he urged. “Compensation must be fair, and the affected people must be taken into confidence.”
Dr. Beg further stressed the importance of constructive opposition to hold the government accountable. “This is not about opposing for the sake of opposition; it’s about ensuring justice and fairness. Measures like these affect the very existence and livelihoods of the people,” he said—(KNO)