Uncategorized
Surveys Underway for Four New Rail Lines in Kashmir Valley; Compensation Assured: Govt
Replying to a question tabled by MLA Javid Hassan Baig, the Transport Department said the proposed rail links include Baramulla–Uri, Sopore–Kupwara, Anantnag–Bijbehara–Pahalgam and Kakapora–Shopian.
The government stated that alignments for the proposed lines have been finalised in consultation with the respective district administrations. It added that the land requirement has been assessed and, once the projects are sanctioned, compensation will be provided to landowners as per applicable laws for acquisition of land, trees and structures.
Addressing concerns over diversion of fertile agricultural land and rehabilitation of affected farmers, the government reiterated that compensation will be paid strictly in accordance with legal provisions during project execution.
On environmental safeguards, the reply said that after approval from the Government of India, mitigation measures will be implemented as per environmental policies and guidelines to tackle issues such as deforestation, soil erosion, water resource disruption and ecological imbalance.
The government further assured that coordination with the Centre and Indian Railways will be maintained to minimise social and environmental impact, with district administrations actively involved during execution to address local concerns and ensure compliance with prescribed norms.
