Safeguard Ferozpora Nallah, speed-up Tangmarg-Poonch road project: Qayoom Wani

Srinagar, Oct 16: The Jammu and Kashmir Civil Society Forum (JKCSF) has called for urgent action and collective commitment toward fast-tracking the Tangmarg–Poonch Road Project and protecting the Ferozpora Nallah from ecological degradation.

Chairman Qayoom Wani described both the Tangmarg–Poonch Road and the proposed Dam/Reservoir at Ferozpora Nallah as game changers for the holistic development of Tangmarg and the entire region. He said the dam will significantly promote trout fish farming, create tourism opportunities, and enhance horticulture and agriculture productivity, serving as a vital step toward sustainable progress.

JKCSF has expressed serious concern over the uncontrolled dredging of Ferozpora Nallah, warning that it has led to the disappearance of spring water sources, drying of wells, and damage to nine essential irrigation canals (kohls). The Forum urged authorities to take immediate measures to preserve and restore the Nallah’s ecological balance.

Wani appealed to leaders and representatives of all political parties to rise above political divisions and come together under a common minimum developmental program for the greater good of this strategically important region, which is home to the world-famous Gulmarg Tourist Destination.

He remarked that to truly realize the vision of “Gulmarg as the Switzerland of Kashmir”, comprehensive measures must be taken for environmental hygiene, waste management, and road macadamization—not just along the main route but across all interior villages from Narbal to Gulmarg.