The government’s highway and satellite township projects are threatening J&K’s agrarian economy, where over 80% of people depend on agriculture.
Land acquisition for these projects, including 900 acres for the semi-ring road, is displacing farmers and destroying valuable agricultural land, including apple and pear orchards.
Farmers are not compensated fairly under the updated Land Acquisition Act, leading to dissatisfaction and economic distress.
The construction threatens J&K’s fragile ecosystems, increasing soil erosion and reducing agricultural productivity.
The loss of green cover and wildlife displacement is also a major concern.
While aimed at improving infrastructure, these projects could cause long-term ecological damage and increase the risk of natural disasters like the 2014 floods.
Urgent action is needed to address the social and ecological consequences of these projects, as unchecked urbanisation threatens J&K’s sustainability and livelihoods.
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