Baramulla-Uri train stretch proposed to pass through residential areas worries locals

Baramulla, Aug 24: The affected families of the proposed Baramulla–Uri railway alignment, which is planned to pass through Jetty Colony, Khawajabagh, Sherwani Colony, Gutiyar, Ushkara, and other residential areas of Baramulla, met the Northern Railway authorities in Jammu and expressed concern over the possible displacement of hundreds of families.

Led by Iftikar Banday, the delegation was assured by senior Northern Railway officials that their concerns would be duly considered and every possible step would be taken to ensure that local residents do not suffer. “The Northern Railway Administrative Officer, Alok Mishra, patiently listened to our concerns and said that developmental works are carried out for the benefit of common people. He assured us that if the proposed railway alignment causes displacement of too many families, the plan will definitely be revisited,” Banday told Greater Kashmir.

Banday hailed the efforts of Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Minga Sherpa, for taking up the issue with the railway authorities. “Without his intervention, the patient hearing we received from the railway officials would not have been possible,” Banday said.

Scores of residents from at least six localities of Baramulla town face the imminent threat of displacement after the railway authorities earmarked the Baramulla–Uri railway alignment through various areas adjoining residential zones. The proposed Srinagar–Uri railway alignment has caused panic among these residents, many of whom have been living there for more than six decades.

One such locality is Sherwani Colony, established in 1961 by the then Housing Board authorities. It was the first-ever colony developed by the Housing Board in north Kashmir. Sherwani Colony is known for its composite culture, housing a significant Sikh and Muslim population, and features a Gurdwara, an Eidgah, and a temple