A Bittersweet Journey

As I embarked on my recent train journey from Kakapora to Baramulla with a friend, I was filled with excitement and anticipation. However, the experience that unfolded was a mixed bag of emotions, leaving me with a sense of concern and a renewed appreciation for the importance of responsible travel.

The journey began at 9:58 am from Kakapora, and I was immediately struck by the cool breeze that carried a hint of chill. I regretted not wearing a jacket with a cap to protect myself from the cold. The train was packed, and we had to stand until the next two stations, Pampore and Nowgam. However, I didn't find it uncomfortable, and eventually, we managed to secure seats at Nowgam.

As my friend worked on his laptop, I gazed out the window, taking in the breathtaking views of nature. But my enthusiasm was short-lived, as I was soon disheartened by the stark contrast between this journey and my previous one five years ago. The once-pristine landscape was now marred by the rampant use of plastic and polythene waste, which has created an eyesore from Kakapora to Baramulla.

The thoughtless disposal of waste, particularly during marriages and other events, has taken a devastating toll on our environment. I couldn't help but think of noted social activist and columnist Dr. Raja Muzaffar's tireless efforts to raise awareness about this issue through social media. The severity of the problem hit me hard, and I felt a sense of urgency to do my part in addressing this environmental disaster.

On a more positive note, I was heartened to see the impact of the train service on people's lives. The affordability and convenience of train travel have transformed the way people commute, connecting them to various parts of the region. I saw people from all walks of life, including employees, laborers, students, and travelers, availing  this service. The cheap tickets, which cost me a mere 20 rupees from Kakapora to Baramulla, were a testament to the train's accessibility.

As I reflected on my journey, I realized that life is not easy for everyone. People struggle to make ends meet, traveling long distances to work and provide for their families. The train connectivity with Jammu and Delhi brings hope for a better future, easing the lives of many.

As I disembarked at Baramulla station, my mind was consumed by a singular thought - a fervent wish to see our beloved land freed from the scourge of polythene and plastic. The stark contrast between the natural beauty of our valley and the ugly blight of plastic waste had left an indelible mark on my consciousness.

I couldn't help but wonder what collective actions we could take to reverse this damage and restore our environment to its former glory. The memory of Dr. Raja Muzaffar's tireless advocacy for a plastic-free Kashmir echoed in my mind, inspiring me to join the chorus of voices calling for change.

Dr Mohammad Younis Dar, Medical Officer Shopian Block