Underdeveloped Projects: The Fate of Pampore ITC and Jablipora Fruit Market

Economic growth depends on the timely execution of projects. In Jammu and Kashmir, however, delays, mismanagement of funds, and political wrangling have stalled key infrastructure initiatives, costing the region jobs, revenue, and credibility. Two projects in particular highlight this malaise – the International Trade Centre (ITC) at Pampore and the International Terminal Fruit and Vegetable Market at Jablipora, Bijbehara.

The ITC was envisioned as a state-of-the-art facility for hosting trade fairs, buyer-seller meets and providing exporters with a direct interface to overseas markets. Land measuring 374 kanals had been transferred in 2004 for the project, and in December 2008, the Union Ministry of Commerce & Industries released Rs 5 crore under the Assistance to States for Developing Export Infrastructure and Allied Activities (ASIDE) scheme. The project cost was estimated at Rs 40 crore, with Rs 30 crore to come from the center and the rest from the state government. The deadline for completion was March 2010. Instead of timely execution, funds were retained by SIDCO for nearly two years. Under pressure to submit a utilisation certificate by GoI, the money was later transferred to the account of the Directorate of Handicrafts. Some questions remain unanswered: What happened to the accrued interest? How were the funds invested? How much was spent during this retention period? More than a decade later, the project remains incomplete, reduced to a fenced plot of land with no meaningful progress.

The story of the Jablipora Fruit and Vegetable Terminal Market is equally troubling. Conceived in 2011–12 by the Omar Abdullah government on 440 kanals of land, the project carried an estimated cost of Rs 40 crore to be funded by NABARD. In spite of political opposition, its foundation stone was eventually laid in 2014 by then Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. I persisted as an MLA with active support of growers’ associations. With its strategic location along National Highway-44, the market was expected to revolutionise Kashmir’s horticultural economy. Planned facilities included 760 shops, auction platforms, cold storage, grading and packing units, administrative blocks, and modern amenities for traders and growers. Yet, twelve years later, the project remains far from completion. Internal roads, drainage, waste disposal, and basic infrastructure are incomplete. Allegations of nepotism and corruption in the opaque allotment of more than 400 licences have further undermined the project.

The tragedy of both Pampore ITC and Jablipora Market is not just about failed infrastructure. It is about the lost economic potential for thousands of growers, artisans, and entrepreneurs who could have benefited from world-class trade facilities. These projects were meant to connect Kashmir to global markets, create employment, and boost incomes. Instead, they now stand as monuments of delay and mismanagement.

What makes matters worse is the absence of accountability. Funds were blocked for years, deadlines were missed, and yet no responsibility was fixed. In all likelihood, these cases will eventually feature in CAG reports and legislative committee discussions long after the damage has been done.

The way forward demands systemic change. Jammu and Kashmir needs a robust monitoring mechanism to ensure that projects are implemented on schedule and in line with approved plans. Transparency in licensing, allotment of shops, and use of facilities must be made mandatory, with clear criteria and periodic reviews. Allegations of corruption in allotments should be investigated, and corrective measures enforced to restore credibility.

Kashmir’s economy, heavily dependent on agriculture and horticulture, cannot afford such missed opportunities. If properly implemented, the Pampore ITC and Jablipora Terminal Market could have transformed the region’s agrarian landscape, empowered small traders, and connected growers directly with national and international buyers. Instead, they remain cautionary tales of what happens when governance falters.

The authorities still have a chance to salvage these projects, but only if decisive action is taken now. Otherwise, the dream of turning Kashmir into a hub of trade and horticultural excellence will remain just that, a dream.

Dr S. Bashir Ahmad Veeri, MLA Bijbehara, contributes occasionally on politics, governance, agriculture, ecology and public policy.