Kupwara, Oct 19: Despite tall government claims of rural development and special focus on far-flung areas, the border village of Ladah Kalaroos in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district continues to remain neglected, with locals alleging that successive administrations have failed to provide even the most basic amenities.
Located close to the Line of Control, Ladah Kalaroos remains cut off from progress that officials often boast of in public forums. Locals say that poor road connectivity, erratic power supply, lack of clean drinking water, and inadequate healthcare have made life extremely difficult for them.
Locals expressed strong resentment over the failure of authorities to complete the bridge that connects the village with nearby areas. “The bridge has been lying incomplete for years. During rains and winters, crossing the area becomes risky. We have approached the officials many times, but nothing has changed,” said a local resident.
Villagers lamented that despite several visits by officials and repeated promises, not a single major project has been completed in the area. “We have been hearing about development plans and government schemes, but on the ground, we still live in the same conditions as decades ago,” they said.
The villagers said that lack of transport and internet connectivity has affected students the most, while elderly residents and patients continue to suffer due to the absence of nearby medical facilities. “In emergencies, we have to travel long distances through rough terrain, especially in winter when roads become completely blocked.”
Locals also accused the authorities of turning a blind eye to their plight while prioritizing projects in other parts of Kupwara. “We are part of the same district, but it seems development stops before reaching our village,” one local remarked in frustration.
The villagers have urged the Kupwara district administration and higher authorities to take immediate steps to address their grievances and ensure that government schemes reach Ladah Kalaroos, which has long been yearning for attention and progress. [KNT]
