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Centre approves FLS for new 78 km railway line from Jammu to Katra

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: The Ministry of Railways has sanctioned the Final Location Survey (FLS) for an additional new railway line covering a stretch of almost 78 kilometres between Jammu and Mata Vaishno Devi (Katra).

According to an official communication from the Railway Board, a copy of which lies with KNO, the Centre-proposed survey covers a stretch of 77.96 kilometres.

The survey will be conducted at an estimated cost of Rs 12.59 crore to lay the groundwork for this future railway line, according to the document.

This Final Location Survey will lay the groundwork for the future construction of this vital railway link. Northern Railway, the executing authority for this project, will oversee the FLS.

The project is expected to bolster connectivity and facilitate smoother travel for the millions of pilgrims visiting the sacred shrine at Katra and improve transport infrastructure in Jammu & Kashmir.

“The new railway line between Jammu and Mata Vaishno Devi (Katra) is set to bring great convenience to travellers, especially devotees heading to the shrine. With this new route, the journey can now be made more comfortably and efficiently by train,” a devotee said.

Meanwhile, five new railway surveys are currently underway in J&K, which will mostly enhance connectivity to north and south Kashmir.

The five new railway surveys in Jammu and Kashmir, aimed at enhancing regional connectivity, are Baramulla–Uri (46 km), Sopore–Kupwara (37 km), Anantnag–Pahalgam (78 km), Avantipora–Shopian (28 km), and the doubling of the Banihal–Baramulla rail line (118 km), which has been placed on the government’s priority list. While these surveys signal progress, several other proposed rail projects have been shelved due to feasibility and cost concerns.

The Srinagar–Kargil–Leh railway line, spanning 480 km and estimated at Rs 55,896 crore, was dropped after a survey conducted in 2016–17 showed low traffic demand. Similarly, the Jammu–Poonch line via Akhnoor and Rajouri (223 km), with a cost estimate of Rs 22,771 crore, remains stalled despite a completed survey, citing low projected ridership.

The 272-km Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link Project, which was started in 1997, took almost 28 years to become operational. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) during his visit to Jammu and Kashmir on June 6 this year. PM Narendra Modi flagged off the first Katra–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express – the first train to directly connect the Valley with the rest of India. Built at a cost of Rs 43,780 crore, the 272-km-long rail line cuts through some of the most challenging terrain in the Himalayas.

The project features 36 main tunnels covering nearly 120 km, eight escape tunnels, and 943 bridges spanning rivers, gorges, and mountain passes. (KNO)

Amarnath Yatra: Despite downpour, over 13,000 perform darshan at cave shrine

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Braving inclement weather conditions, as many as 13,000 pilgrims paid obeisance at the holy cave shrine of Amarnath on Wednesday, officials said.

An official informed KNO that the pilgrims who paid obeisance at the holy cave shrine included 8,877 males, 3,798 females, 145 children, 70 sadhus, and 8 sadhvis. In addition, 314 security forces personnel also performed darshan today.

The cumulative number of yatris who have performed darshan in the two weeks since the commencement of the Yatra has reached 2,47,213, officials said, adding that the Yatra continues to proceed smoothly with a steady influx of devotees from different parts of the country.

Despite occasional weather challenges, the administration has ensured that all necessary arrangements are in place for the comfort and safety of the pilgrims.

Meanwhile, a fresh batch of 6,064 Amarnath Yatra pilgrims left from the Yatri Niwas, Bhagwati Nagar base camp in Jammu early Wednesday morning, officials said. The pilgrims, escorted by security forces, departed in a fleet of 234 vehicles, comprising both Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs) and Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMVs), under a multi-tier security arrangement.

According to officials, 3,593 pilgrims proceeded via the Pahalgam route, while 2,471 pilgrims took the Baltal route. So far, the pilgrimage has continued peacefully with robust participation despite intermittent downpours along the route.

Administration clarifies false reports

Contrary to some false reports circulating on social media regarding the suspension of the Amarnath Yatra due to rains, the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir has clarified that the Yatra is ongoing without any interruption, and pilgrims are safely having darshan of Baba Barfani.

“The Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2025 is proceeding smoothly, and pilgrims are taking darshan of Baba Barfani without any interruption,” said the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir.

All media outlets are advised to verify facts from official sources before publishing or circulating any information regarding the Yatra, the statement said, adding that the public is requested to rely only on official updates for accurate and timely information.

Army takes swift action for pilgrim’s medical emergency

Reaffirming its unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of pilgrims undertaking the sacred Amarnath Yatra, the Indian Army carried out a swift medical evacuation at Barari Marg on Monday night.

A defence spokesperson in a statement issued to KNO said that at around 8:00 PM, a 38-year-old pilgrim, Ajay Kumar from Ludhiana, began feeling unwell while descending the yatra route. “Acting promptly, the Medical Evacuation Team, led by the NCO Incharge stationed at Barari, responded immediately,” he said.

The pilgrim was escorted to the nearest Medical Aid Post, where he received timely medical care and was kept under observation as per standard protocol, the Army said, adding that after being stabilised and showing improvement, Ajay Kumar reported feeling better and continued his descent without assistance, accompanied by his fellow pilgrims.

“This incident underscores the Indian Army’s proactive humanitarian efforts in ensuring the health, safety, and morale of all yatris. Army medical teams remain on round-the-clock alert along the entire yatra route, committed to providing immediate assistance and facilitating a safe and smooth pilgrimage for all,” the spokesperson said.

The annual Amarnath Yatra, which commenced earlier this month on July 3, is scheduled to conclude on August 9 this year. (KNO)

Appointing officers in revenue dept without Urdu knowledge will be useless: CM Omar

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday said that appointing officers in the Revenue Department without knowledge of Urdu would be ineffective. He said it is important for officers to have basic Urdu language skills to effectively handle revenue records, which are historically maintained in Urdu.

“Ours is not an attempt to exclude anyone from the department. Revenue records in Jammu and Kashmir have been in Urdu since before Independence. If we appoint officers who cannot even read these records, what will they do?” Omar said during a media interaction regarding the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) stay on the enforcement of a key provision in the Jammu & Kashmir Revenue (Subordinate) Service Recruitment Rules. The rule mandated candidates possess a graduation degree with Urdu language knowledge as an exclusive qualification for the post of Naib Tehsildar.

As reported by KNO, Omar said that officers from JKAS and IAS who lack Urdu knowledge are being given time to learn the language. “Appointing Revenue officers without Urdu knowledge is futile. It’s better to develop a policy allowing them some months or a year to acquire basic Urdu skills. If they don’t have Urdu knowledge, they won’t be able to read revenue records effectively,” he explained.

In another development, CM welcomed the letter from Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging the restoration of statehood for Jammu and Kashmir. He expressed gratitude and said that he had long awaited such a move.

“I appreciate Kharge and Rahul for raising the issue of statehood restoration. We haven’t asked for anything that hasn’t been promised to us. Promises were made in Parliament, the Supreme Court, and public meetings that statehood would be restored at the earliest. I believe the time for delay has passed, and it should be restored now,” he asserted.

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister projected that the ongoing Amarnath Yatra will see over 3.5 lakh pilgrims this year. “Despite concerns that pilgrimages would decline after the Pahalgam attack, large numbers are visiting Kashmir, and the pilgrimage is proceeding smoothly. We expect the number to easily cross 3.5 lakh,” he said. (KNO)

Jhelum, tributaries show ‘marginal rise’ amid fresh rains; No flood threat, say officials

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Despite moderate rainfall across the region, the water level in river Jhelum and its tributaries saw only a marginal increase on Wednesday, with authorities ruling out any immediate ‘flood threat’.

As per the latest figures from the Irrigation and Flood Control Department Kashmir, as accessed by KNO, the Jhelum at Sangam was flowing at 3.85 feet, significantly below the 21-foot flood mark.

“In Munshi Bagh, it stood at 5.94 feet (flood mark: 18 feet) and at Asham, the level was 3.84 feet (flood mark: 14 feet),” the data says.

It adds, other readings include: Pampore: 0.05m, Wullar Lake: 1574.94m (against full level of 1578.00m), while the tributaries also remained well below danger levels as Vishow Nallah at Khudwani: 2.73m, Rambiyara Nallah at Wachi: 0.01m, Lidder Nallah at Batkoot: 0.79m, and the Sindh Nallah at Doderhama: 1.06m.

A senior I&FC Department official said there is no flood threat as of now. “Water levels are being regularly monitored, and the situation remains under control,” he said.

Adding to the assessment, Faizan Arif Keng, an Independent Weather Forecaster from Kashmir Weather, said that most of the rainfall so far has occurred in central Kashmir.

“Rainfall in higher catchment areas is more crucial for a significant rise in river levels. The effect on Jhelum will likely reflect a day later or more, once the upper regions contribute to runoff,” he said.

Meanwhile, according to the Meteorological Centre Srinagar, multiple spells of rain are expected in the coming days, particularly from July 16–17 and again from July 21–23, with warnings for heavy to very heavy rain at isolated places.

The advisory issued by the MeT reads, “Risk of flash floods, landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones in vulnerable areas, while the public, especially those in hilly or flood-prone areas, are advised to remain alert and follow official updates.” (KNO)

Intermittent rains continue as J&K sees normal precipitation in 46 days

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: The intermittent rains that continued throughout the day have brought the mercury down across Jammu and Kashmir, with the weatherman predicting more rains for the next week. However, the fresh spell of rain has brought the deficit rainfall to normal levels for the ongoing season.

According to KNO, the intermittent rains have lowered temperatures across Jammu and Kashmir, with Srinagar, the summer capital of the region, recording a maximum temperature of 21.0°C, which is 9.1°C below normal.

Qazigund, a gateway to Kashmir, recorded 20.2°C (7.8°C below normal); Pahalgam recorded 19.7°C (5.8°C below normal); Kupwara experienced a day temperature of 27.9°C (9.0°C below normal); Kokernag recorded 20.7°C (6.9°C below normal); and Gulmarg registered 15.0°C (6.2°C below normal).

Similarly, in Jammu division, the mercury has settled below normal, with Jammu city recording a maximum temperature of 30.6°C, which is 3.4°C below normal.

Banihal recorded 23.5°C (5.4°C below normal); Batote 22.0°C (4.6°C below normal); Katra 25.8°C (4.9°C below normal); and Bhaderwah 25.6°C (4.8°C below normal).

Meanwhile, the weatherman has predicted more rain over the next week, stating that amid cloudy weather conditions, there is a possibility of intermittent spells of light to moderate rain and thundershowers at many places, with intense showers at a few locations, including heavy to very heavy rain in isolated areas of J&K tomorrow.

Director of the Meteorological Department (MeT), Dr Mukhtar Ahmad, said that light to moderate rain and thundershowers are expected at scattered to fairly widespread places from July 18 to 20.

He added that from July 21 to 23, generally cloudy weather is forecast with intermittent spells of light to moderate rain and thundershowers at many places, with intense showers at a few locations, including heavy to very heavy rain at isolated places in J&K.

Moreover, the MeT has issued yellow and orange alerts for the region until 22 July.

According to the MeT, a yellow alert has been issued for the Kashmir region until July 22, while in Jammu, an orange alert has been issued until July 19, followed by a yellow alert for July 20. The orange alert will again be in place on July 21 and 22 for Jammu division.

Additionally, data prepared by the MeT indicates that the region has received normal precipitation from June 1 to July 16.

The data shows that J&K recorded 157 mm of rainfall against the normal of 159.4 mm during this period.

A total of nine stations, including Srinagar, recorded normal precipitation, while Udhampur, Reasi, and Samba experienced excess rainfall during this period.

However, five stations—including Anantnag, Budgam, Doda, Ganderbal, and Kulgam—recorded deficit rainfall over the past 46 days, varying from 20 to 59 per cent.

Kishtwar and Shopian are the two stations where a significant deficiency was recorded, ranging between 60 and 99 per cent.

Rajouri, however, was the only station to record large excess rainfall during the ongoing season.

Meanwhile, the MeT has issued an advisory indicating that there is a possibility of intense showers at a few places, with heavy to very heavy rain at isolated locations in J&K during July 16-17 and July 21-23, warning of flash floods at vulnerable sites, along with landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones. (KNO)

Strong police-public bond essential to eradicate terrorism: DGP Prabhat

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Emphasizing the crucial role of public cooperation in maintaining peace, Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat on Wednesday said that a strong bond between the police and the public is essential to effectively eradicate terrorism from Jammu and Kashmir.

Talking to reporters here, DGP Prabhat, according to KNO said, “A major success was achieved recently in Dudu-Basantgarh forest of Udhampur, where a top Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) commander, active for four years, was eliminated.”

He said, “Information about the presence of terrorists in the area was provided by the people. Police cannot be successful without public support. The bond between the public and police in Akhnoor has been instrumental in our success.”

The DGP noted that operations to neutralize terrorists are ongoing and reaffirmed the police’s commitment to internal security.

He congratulated personnel of Police Station Akhnoor, located near the Line of Control (LoC), for being adjudged the Best Police Station in Jammu and Kashmir for 2024 by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

To mark this exceptional achievement, the Director General of Police visited Police Station Akhnoor and personally presented the Certificate of Excellence to the police personnel. “It is a very happy day for Jammu Police,” the DGP said while addressing the gathering. “Instead of giving this award in a closed room, I decided to come here and personally hand it over. This recognition is the result of your relentless hard work and dedication.”

The DGP was accompanied by IGP Jammu Zone B.S. Tuti, IGP CRPF Gopala K. Rao,; DIG JSK Range Shiv Kumar Sharma, DC Jammu Sachin Vaishya, IAS; and SSP Jammu Joginder Singh, JKPS. The event was also graced by Hon’ble MLA Akhnoor, Mohan Lal Bhagat, along with senior officers from the Army, BSF, CRPF, intelligence agencies, civil administration, and zonal police officers.

Akhnoor Police Station is a historic and protected site. It was among the 76 top-performing police stations shortlisted out of 17,932 across India based on stringent performance criteria set by the MHA’s Police Modernisation Division, with support from the TransRural research agency.

This national-level recognition is part of a flagship initiative launched in 2015 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the DGP/IGP Conference in Kutch, Gujarat.

Lauding the efforts of the Akhnoor police team, DGP Prabhat praised the former SHO Inspector Tariq Ahmed, SDPO Mohan Sharma, JKPS, and SP Rural Brijesh Sharma, for their leadership in 2024. He also extended his best wishes to the present SHO Inspector Sanjeev Chib and SDPO Varinder Gupta, encouraging them to uphold the legacy of excellence.

DGP Prabhat also commended the station’s effective community policing and its remarkable performance in tackling drug peddling, bovine smuggling, gangster activity, and other crimes. (KNO)

J&K statehood at appropriate time: LG Sinha

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Reiterating that J&K’s statehood will be restored at an appropriate time and everyone needs to wait for it, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday said that during his five-year tenure he has been able to establish the authority of Indian state in the region.

In an interview to a news channel LG Sinha, according to KNO, reflected on his five-year tenure and the significant transformation the region has undergone under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

“When Article 370 was abrogated in August 2019, the Union Home Minister outlined a three-step process: delimitation, elections, and then restoration of statehood at an appropriate time. Delimitation has been completed, assembly elections have been held peacefully with high voter turnout, and an elected government is now in place. The final step—statehood—will happen, but at the right time,” LG Sinha said.

He emphasized that Jammu and Kashmir is now more closely integrated with the rest of India than ever before, but acknowledged that “more needs to be done.” Referring to J&K as a “frontier area,” LG Sinha underlined the importance of maintaining Centres control over law and order, especially in light of persistent threats from across the border.

LG Sinha said, “Terrorism continues to be a state policy for Pakistan, which persists in pushing foreign terrorists into our territory. However, our security forces remain vigilant and fully prepared to counter such threats. “

“The biggest achievement, though, is the sharp decline in local recruitment into terrorist outfits — where earlier 100 to 150 local youths joined annually, this year only one case has been reported. Even last year, the number had dropped to just six or seven. This reflects the growing public confidence in peace and governance,” LG Sinha said.

CENTRE COMMITTED TO PEACE, PROGRESS, AND DEVELOPMENT

Reflecting on his tenure, LG Sinha expressed satisfaction over the peace, economic growth, and employment opportunities achieved in J&K over the past five years.

“When I arrived in 2020, travel from Jammu to Srinagar took 8-9 hours. Today, that journey takes just 4.5 hours thanks to massive infrastructure upgrades. Over ₹1.5 lakh crore is being spent on tunnel construction alone,” he noted.

“Private sector investment rose from ₹1,400 crore to nearly ₹30,000 crore, with projects worth ₹10,000–12,000 crore already operational. Power generation capacity increased by 3,100 MW, complementing the existing 3,450 MW. Tourism boom with over 2.38 crore tourists visiting in the last year,” he said, adding, “Digital governance with 1,146 public services available online and digitization of land records. PMGSY expansion, covering more villages as per the 2011 Census with an additional Rs 4,000 crore sanctioned.”

LG Sinha said that flagship institutions like IIT, IIM, AIIMS, NIFT, and seven new medical colleges were established.

FROM LOCKDOWNS TO STABILITY

LG Sinha highlighted improvement in security, with no lockdowns or strikes in recent years. Stone pelting has stopped, late-night life has returned, and local recruitment in terror outfits has plummeted—only one local youth joined a terrorist group this year compared to over 100 annually in previous years.

“This is a result of increased public confidence and strong coordination between the police, Army, and Central forces. Our message, under the leadership of the Home Minister, is clear: we will not buy peace—we will establish it,” he said.

LG Sinha also pointed to Pakistan’s continued attempts to push terrorists across the border, but assured that security forces remain vigilant and prepared.

Referring to Operation Sindoor, he said, “Every act of terror is now treated as an act of war. We’ve shown our strength to the world and sent a clear message to our hostile neighbor.”

HUMANITARIAN APPROACH TOWARDS TERROR VICTIMS

During a visit to Baramulla, LG Sinha said that he interacted with families affected by terrorism over the last three decades. Many had not received financial aid or employment due to procedural delays.

“Yesterday, 40 terror-affected individuals received government jobs. We are now processing pending financial assistance cases, helping people file FIRs, and supporting self-employment through entrepreneurship,” he said, adding that the administration is taking a whole-of-government and humanitarian approach.

GOVERNANCE AND COMMUNITY ISSUES

Commenting on the division of power between the Chief Minister and the LG, Sinha clarified that roles are well-defined under the J&K Reorganization Act. “My relationship with the Chief Minister is cordial. I work within my constitutional limits and meet regularly to resolve any issues,” he said,” I am fully mindful of my constitutional boundaries and always operate within them. I also maintain regular meetings with the Chief Minister to ensure smooth coordination.”

On former CM Mehbooba Mufti’s allegation that government employees from a particular community are being unfairly targeted, Sinha responded firmly:

“Article 311 is a constitutional safeguard for the state. Any action taken under it is based on thorough investigation and credible evidence. No innocent person is harmed; however, those posing a threat to national security will face strict legal action.”

‘NAYA KASHMIR’

LG Sinha described the emergence of a new Kashmir, where peace, economic progress, and inclusivity are shaping public life. From the successful Muharram procession after 35 years to the return of cinema halls and the revival of traditional festivals across communities, he said, “The aspirations that once seemed distant are now visible in every corner of J&K. This is Naya Kashmir—vibrant, peaceful, and full of opportunity.” (KNO)

13.5 Lakh Addicted Kashmir’s Battle for Survival

Kashmir Leader Desk
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By: Jasib Shabir

Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir is facing a deepening crisis not of bullets or borders, but of addiction. The drug menace has silently but aggressively taken hold of the region, ensnaring over 13.5 lakh people across its districts. Shockingly this includes 1.68 lakh minors and 95,000 opioid users according to the most recent data.

A December 2022 survey conducted by the Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar sheds further light on the gravity of the situation. It revealed that injection drug users in the Kashmir Valley are collectively using up to 33,000 syringes daily a horrifying indicator of the rise in high risk drug practices.

The Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (IMHANS) conducted a separate set of surveys across ten districts of Kashmir, revealing another disturbing pattern: the average heroin addict spends ₹88,000 per month on their habit. A staggering 90% of these addicts fall within the age group of 17 to 33, with the average age being just 28 years. These are our youth the future of Kashmir trapped in a deadly spiral.

While recent awareness campaigns, increased police action, and initiatives under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan have marginally reduced heroin usage in some areas, a new threat has emerged. Officials are now warning of a rapid surge in pharmaceutical and synthetic drug abuse. Drugs like Tapentadol, Tramadol, Pregabalin, and even veterinary medications such as Avilin are being misused at alarming rates. These substances are not only easier to procure but also harder to detect and control, making them a more insidious threat.

Health professionals at IMHANS Srinagar continue to see 5 to 10 new patients every day, most of them young and showing signs of polydrug abuse the use of multiple addictive substances simultaneously. This sharp rise in drug dependency is also leading to 35% increase in injection drug use, exposing users to Hepatitis C, HIV, vein collapse, and fatal overdoses.

Despite these dark statistics, hope persists through collective action. Doctors, law enforcement, and community leaders are coming together to stem the tide. In a commendable initiative, IMHANS recently trained 30 imams and religious leaders under the J&K Waqf Board to carry anti drug messages to their local communities. Their voice, rooted in faith and trust, is crucial in penetrating deep into grassroots society.

On the enforcement front, the Jammu & Kashmir Police remain vigilant. In 2024 alone, they registered 1,539 drug related cases and arrested 2,158 individuals under the NDPS Act. From busting smuggling routes to dismantling dealer networks, their relentless efforts have prevented countless tragedies.

However, this war cannot be fought by the police or health institutions alone. It is a collective responsibility. Parents, teachers, religious leaders, NGOs, and every conscious citizen must rise to protect our youth from this slow death.

Let us not lose a generation to silence. Let us unite to save the future of Kashmir.

(Jasib Shabir is a Social Activist, Founder, Rising Youth and  Activist at Save Youth Save Future Foundation & Taleem Haq Hai Humara)

Lack of Biochemistry analyzer at GMC Anantnag forces patients to private labs

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: The Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnag remains the only medical institution in the region where a vital biochemistry analyzer has not been procured for the past 7 months, causing serious inconvenience to patients who are now forced to seek expensive diagnostic services from private laboratories.

Sources told KNT that despite five written reminders from the Medical Superintendent, the equipment has not yet been arranged. The absence of a functional biochemistry analyzer, essential for routine blood and biochemical investigations, has severely affected diagnostic services at the hospital, leaving patients no option but to bear the burden of high costs at private diagnostic centres.

The issue has sparked growing frustration among patients and hospital staff alike, as the delay has continued despite repeated follow-ups. “We are made to run from pillar to post. A single test that costs Rs 200 at a government hospital costs over Rs 800 outside,” said a patient from Kulgam.

When contacted, Procurement Officer Dr. Sami Magray confirmed that a tender for the procurement of the biochemistry analyzer has already been issued. “We are in the final stages. The equipment will be procured within a few days,” he assured.

Principal GMC Anantnag, Dr. Rukhsana Najeeb, also acknowledged the delay but clarified that all necessary formalities have been completed from her side. “The analyzer is essential, and we have done everything required. The procurement process is now nearing completion,” she said.

Notably, a biochemistry analyzer is a crucial laboratory device used for measuring various substances in blood and body fluids, including glucose, enzymes, lipids, proteins, and electrolytes.

It is instrumental in diagnosing and monitoring a wide range of health conditions such as diabetes, liver disorders, kidney function, and cardiovascular diseases. Without it, timely diagnosis and treatment can be significantly delayed, putting patient health at risk. (KNT)

18 Trees Illegally Axed; Forest Officials Suspended in Gurez’s Baduaab Block

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: In a major enforcement action, the Forest Protection Force (FPF) has seized 608.99 cubic feet of illicitly sawn timber and discovered the illegal felling of 18 green Kail (fir) trees in Compartment No. 30/T of the Buduab Block Forest Range in Gurez.

The operation, carried out on July 12 following a specific input, exposed serious lapses in forest protection in the ecologically sensitive border region.

Acting on a report submitted by the FPF Gamma Unit (K-08), the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Bandipora has placed two forest officials under immediate suspension.

Mohammad Rafiq Lone, In-Charge Block Officer, and Musa Khan, Mali, have been held accountable for gross negligence and possible abetment in the illicit felling.

The seized timber, comprising 149 sawn pieces, was formally handed over to the duo, who endorsed the damage report—raising serious concerns about their role in the lapse.

According to the official order (No. 19 OF DFO BAND 2025) issued by the DFO Bandipora, the action has been taken under Rule 31(1) of the J&K Civil Services Regulations (CSR), Volume I, which allows suspension of government employees during disciplinary or criminal proceedings in the interest of public service.

The DFO has cited violations of Rules 3 and 4 of the J&K Government Employees (Conduct) Rules, 1971, which mandate integrity, devotion to duty, and conduct in line with public trust.

The suspended officials have been directed to remain attached to the Office of the Range Officer, Khuihama Bandipora, and asked to mark daily attendance. They are barred from leaving the station without written permission and are required to be available for inquiry proceedings.

The order issued by DFO Bandipora also flags possible complicity on the part of the Gurez Range Officer, Sheikh Mohammad Iqbal, noting that he may have enabled or failed to prevent the large-scale forest damage through wilful inaction or lack of supervisory control. A separate departmental inquiry has been recommended into his conduct.

The DFO Bandipora stated that the action was taken to ensure accountability and transparency in protecting forest resources, particularly in sensitive areas like Gurez, which are vulnerable to timber smuggling due to difficult terrain and low manpower.

Further investigation into the incident is underway, and departmental inquiries are expected to determine individual responsibility and suggest preventive measures. (KNS)

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