Leading the protest, former BJP (MLC) Vikram Randhawa, vocally opposed his own party’s government, demanding an immediate halt to the project.

||Black and White Digital News||

||Parvinder Singh June 14, 2024||

JAMMU: A significant protest has arisen in Jammu against the National Highways Authority of India’s (NHAI) decision to erect blind walls on both sides of the road stretching from Kunjwani to Narwal. This proposed construction has sparked outrage among local shopkeepers, educational institutions, medical facilities, and other business establishments along the route, who foresee devastating impacts on their operations and accessibility.

Leading the protest, former BJP Member of Legislative Council (MLC) Vikram Randhawa and prominent businessman Sham Langar vocally opposed their own party’s government, demanding an immediate halt to the project. The duo, flanked by a substantial number of affected stakeholders, voiced their concerns regarding the lack of consultation and transparency in the project’s Detailed Project Report (DPR).

Concerns Over Business and Accessibility…

Shopkeepers and business owners are particularly incensed, arguing that the blind walls will obstruct visibility and access to their establishments, leading to a sharp decline in customer footfall and subsequent revenue losses. Schools and hospitals along the route have also raised alarms about the potential hazards and inconveniences the walls could pose, including restricted emergency access and decreased safety for students and patients.

Leaders Demand Stakeholder Involvement…

Randhawa and Langar highlighted the glaring omission of stakeholder consultation in the planning process. They emphasized the necessity for NHAI and the government to engage with local businesses and residents before finalizing infrastructural projects that have wide-ranging implications. The leaders questioned the rationale behind the decision-making process, suggesting that the current plan appears to prioritize vehicular movement over the livelihoods and safety of the local community.

Threat of Mass Agitation…

In a fiery address to the gathering, Randhawa issued a stern warning to the authorities. He declared that if the project was not scrapped, they would mobilize a mass agitation, potentially escalating the protest to a statewide movement. “We will not stand by as our businesses are destroyed and our voices ignored. This blind wall project must be dropped immediately, or we will take to the streets in greater numbers,” he asserted.

Call for Government Action…

The protestors have called on the government to reassess the project, taking into account the adverse effects on the local economy and daily life. They urged for a collaborative approach where the voices of those directly impacted are heard and their concerns addressed.

The situation remains tense as the affected parties await a response from NHAI and government officials. The unfolding events will test the administration’s willingness to balance infrastructure development with the needs and well-being of its citizens. As the community rallies together, the demand for a more inclusive and transparent planning process grows louder, setting a crucial precedent for future projects in the region.