Srinagar, May 2 (JKNS): Residents of Magam in Central Kashmir’s Budgam district staged a strong protest on Friday, questioning the delay in completion of a key bridge project inaugurated by Union Minister Smriti Irani in 2021.
The bridge, launched with much promise and public attention, remains half-constructed even after years. Locals described it as a “broken symbol of forgotten promises,” pointing to the slow pace of development despite over 50 percent of the work already being completed.
Talking to news agency JKNS, a group of protesting locals said, “Why is Magam always ignored? Why are our voices never heard? The concerned department cites a lack of funds, but if half of the bridge is already built, why has the rest stalled?”
The locals also raised concerns about flood protection measures, stating that after the 2014 floods, only partial dredging of the river was done. “Only 50% dredging has been carried out. Materials to fix the damaged bunds are lying here, but no work is being done. Our children are living in homes at risk of landslides. Where will we go if disaster strikes again?” one local asked.
Frustration was also voiced over the administrative apathy. “Whenever we approach any office, we’re just told to go somewhere else. No one listens. We’re simply being passed from one department to another,” they said.
The protesters urged the administration to intervene immediately. “We demand answers. Where are the funds? Why is the material lying unused? Magam deserves better,” they said. (JKNS)
