Imran Shah
Kishtwar, (TDD) Residents of Kishtwar district today expressed their frustration over the administration’s delay in clearing snow from link roads after the recent heavy snowfall. Many remote areas remain isolated, with locals unable to access essential services, including markets and healthcare.
“While the main roads have been cleared, the smaller link roads in our area are still buried under snow. We feel completely abandoned by the administration,” said Shakeel Ahmed, a local from Kishtwar town.
Another local from Link Road, Kishtwar, Zahida Begum, lamented the difficulties faced by patients and elderly residents.
“We have a patient in the village who urgently needs medical care, but we can’t even think of reaching the hospital in these conditions. The administration must act now.” The locals have appealed the authorities to clear roads within Kishtwar town, and adjoining areas.
Shopkeepers in Kishtwar town also raised concerns about the impact on supplies.
“The delays in snow clearance have disrupted the delivery of goods to our shops. If this continues, we’ll soon run out of stock,” said Abdul Rashid, a shop owner.
Despite repeated appeals, residents claim that no snow-clearing machinery or teams have reached their areas.
“It’s not just about convenience; this is about survival. If the link roads remain blocked, we’ll face severe problems with food and medical supplies,” added Irfan Malik, a local activist.
The district administration has assured residents that snow-clearing operations are underway and that all roads will be cleared in a phased manner. However, locals demand a more urgent and coordinated response, fearing prolonged isolation could worsen their hardships.(TDD)