Residents of over a dozen villages on Baramulla’s Hanjiveera-Magam stretch rue pathetic road condition

Baramulla, Jun 26: The vital road stretch from Hanjiveera to Magam in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district is in a severely dilapidated condition, triggering outrage among residents of several villages situated along this route.

Locals have accused the administration of persistent neglect, especially ahead of the important religious month of Muharram, when the area witnesses heightened activity. The road, which connects over a dozen villages—including Malbuchan Magam, Molmooh, Hagarpoor, Kangamdora, Nurala, Khore Hanjiveera, Ahmadpora and several other villages and also houses the Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Magam, —serves as a critical link between Baramulla and Budgam districts. It is also frequently used by residents of Baramulla and Kupwara to access Tangmarg and the tourist destination of Gulmarg.

Muhammad Aslam, a resident, said, “Huge potholes can be seen throughout the stretch from Hanjiveera to Magam. The dust and uneven surface have made life miserable, especially for patients suffering from respiratory diseases,” he added.

Another resident said that while the administration ensures availability of water and electricity during Muharram, they continue to ignore the poor road condition, which is equally essential for religious processions and public convenience. “It’s clear that road repair isn’t their priority,” said Ali Muhammad, a local elder.

The residents have urged the Baramulla district administration to prioritise the macadamisation and repair of this key road stretch.

“The road infrastructure is a basic necessity and must be addressed immediately to ease their daily hardships and ensure safe movement during the upcoming Muharram days,” said Showkat Ali of Hanjiveera.