Villagers of Ring Bala in Machil seek all-weather road, cite severe hardships

Kupwara, Mar 2: Residents of Ring Bala in the Machil sector of north Kashmir’s Kupwara district are facing severe day-to-day hardships due to the absence of a reliable road, particularly during winter when the existing route becomes completely unusable.

Locals said a road was recently carved out from Ring Payeen to Ring Bala across a rugged mountainous stretch. However, they pointed out that the route was originally developed for the movement of 4x4 military vehicles and is not suitable for civilian use.

“During winter, when the area witnesses heavy snowfall, the road becomes impassable for both light and heavy vehicles. As a result, we are forced to travel on foot and carry essential supplies on our shoulders across difficult terrain in harsh weather conditions,” residents said. They added that the situation has caused immense inconvenience and disrupted access to healthcare and other basic services.

The residents have urged the district administration and the concerned department to construct an alternative road connecting Ring Payeen to Ring Bala via Khan Basti and Gunda Aab.

“This alignment is comparatively less steep and receives less snowfall, which would help keep it functional throughout the year,” Shabir Ahmad, a local resident, told Greater Kashmir.

He said the proposed route would not only ease transportation problems but also connect Ring Bala with other villages in the Machil Valley, improving access to essential services and opening new avenues for tourism and local economic activity.

The villagers have appealed for urgent government intervention, saying an all-weather road is vital for their survival and development in this far-flung border region.