Srinagar, July 1: Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) on Wednesday said that due to unavoidable maintenance works, the power supply in several areas of the Kashmir division will remain shut in forthcoming days.

In a communication, Chief Engineer, Distribution, KPDCL informed that the shutdown of 33 KV Soura-SKIMS line will be observed due to which power supply to Upper Soura, 90 feet, Nowshera, Bohlachpora and adjoining areas will be affected from 08 AM to 02 PM on 02 July, 2026.

Similarly, shutdown of 33 KV Habak Hazratbal line will be observed due to which power supply to Habak, Hazartabal, Mallabagh and adjoining areas will be affected from 08 AM to 02 PM on 05 July, 2026.

Likewise, shutdown of 33 KV Takenwari line will be observed due to which power supply to Sangam, Shanglipora and adjoining areas will be affected from 08 AM to 02 PM on 07 July, 2026.

Similarly, shutdown of 33 KV Arampora Handwara hot & Kupwara old Line will be observed due to which power supply to Handwara Town, Chogal, Kulangam, Sagipora, Marathgam, Whole Lolab, Machil valley and adjoining areas will be affected from 08 AM to 02 PM on 02 July, 2026.

Further, shutdown of 33 KV Arampora Handwara old & Kupwara Old Line will be observed due to which power supply to Zachaldara, Rajwar, Hangah, Haril, Lach, Whole Lolab & Machil Valley and adjoining areas will be affected from 08 AM to 02 PM on 04 July, 2026.

Similarly, shutdown of 33 KV Kupwara Old line will be observed due to which power supply to Whole Lolab,  Machil Valley and adjoining areas will be affected from 08 AM to 02 PM on 07 July, 2026.

Likewise, shutdown of 33 KV Hyhama Dolipora line will be observed due to which power supply to Trehgam, Hayan, Zurhama, Hyhama, Gushie, Deedikoot and adjoining areas will be affected from 08 AM to 02 PM on 02 July, 2026.

Similarly, shutdown of 33 KV Kralpora Tarathpora Tap line will be observed due to which power supply to Kralpora, Gazriyal, Chowkibal, Shumnag Valley, Keran Valley, Kalmoona and adjoining areas will be affected from 08 AM to 02 PM on 03 July, 2026.

Further, shutdown of 33 KV Tangdar Tap line will be observed due to which power supply to Tangdar, Gabra, Taad, Kandi, MES Chiterkoot, Teetwal and adjoining areas will be affected from 08 AM to 02 PM on 06 & 09 July, 2026.

Similarly, shutdown of 33 KV Keran Tap line will be observed due to which power supply to Whole Keran Valley and adjoining areas will be affected from 08 AM to 02 PM on 09 & 11 July, 2026.

Likewise, shutdown of 33 KV Wanpoh Qaimoh line will be observed due to which power supply to Qaimoh, Khudwani, Redwani, Matalhama and adjoining areas will be affected from 08 to 02 PM on 02 & 04 July, 2026.

Similarly, shutdown of 33 KV Ahmadpora Arizal Tap line will be observed due to which power supply to Arizal, Reyar, Doodpathri, & adjoining areas will be affected from 08 AM to 02 PM on 02 July, 2026.

Further, shutdown of 33 KV Ahmadpora Beerwah line will be observed due to which power supply to Sail, Gondipora, old Beerwah, Arwa, Najan, Chewdara, Beerwah town, Sonpah, Raiyar, Hospital Zanigam, Arizal, Doodhpathri, khag and  adjoining areas will be affected from 08 AM to 02 PM on 04 & 07 July, 2026.

Likewise, shutdown of 33 KV Ahamadpora Magam line will be observed due to which power supply to Mazhama, Old Sanoor, Aripanthan, Magam, Weriahama, burden & adjoining areas will be affected from 08 AM to 02 PM on 07 July, 2026.

Similarly, shutdown of 33 KV Badampora Army Madhwan Line will be observed due to which power supply to Hajin, Hakbara, Safapora, Shahgund, Boniyar,Sodnara and Chandergir will be affected from 08 AM to 02 PM on 02, 04 & 08 July, 2026.

Srinagar, July 1: As part of the extensive security preparations for the forthcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra-2026, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir V. K. Birdi on Wednesday conducted a comprehensive visit to Pahalgam to review the security arrangements along the Yatra route and assess the operational preparedness of the security grid.

During the visit, the IGP inspected the X-ray Screening Point, where he reviewed the passenger and baggage screening mechanism. He emphasized the importance of meticulous screening, seamless coordination among all agencies, and strict adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure a safe, secure, and hassle-free pilgrimage for the devotees.

The IGP also visited the Nunwan Base Camp and undertook a detailed assessment of the overall security architecture, deployment plans, surveillance mechanisms, access control measures, and emergency response preparedness. He interacted with officers and personnel deployed on the ground and appreciated their dedication, professionalism, and commitment towards ensuring foolproof security arrangements for the Yatra.

Reviewing the multi-layered security measures, V. K. Birdi directed officers to maintain a high level of alertness, strengthen inter-agency coordination, and ensure the effective implementation of all security protocols. He stressed the need for proactive policing, continuous monitoring, and swift response to any contingency to facilitate the smooth, peaceful, and incident-free conduct of the annual pilgrimage.

The IGP was accompanied by DIG South Kashmir Range Javid Iqbal Matoo, DIG Yatra Sameer Sharma, SSP Anantnag Amod Ashok Nagpure, along with other senior officers of J&K Police.

The visit forms part of the ongoing series of inspections being undertaken by senior police officers to review operational preparedness and further strengthen the security framework ahead of the commencement of the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra-2026.

Srinagar, July 1: Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Wednesday said that “lasting peace in Jammu and Kashmir can only be achieved through meaningful dialogue between the Government of India and the people of the region.” Stressing that peace is the cornerstone of progress, he said, “Peace is utmost essential for the development and prosperity of Jammu and Kashmir.”

He said that Apni Party endorses calls for dialogue between India and Pakistan. He said that if such a dialogue ensures peace in Jammu and Kashmir, they would be the happiest people to support such a move. He said, “Peace is paramount for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. If both the neighbouring countries talk to each other and that leads to peace in Jammu and Kashmir, we would be the happiest people.”

He further said, “I have been consistently demanding that the Centre initiate a dialogue with the people of Jammu and Kashmir because I understand that only dialogue can ensure the redressal of issues and grievances. I am happy that today even those who opposed dialogue earlier are supporting it. Dialogue is the only way to address issues.”

Taking a dig at the government over the outsourcing of jobs in Jammu and Kashmir, he said, “It is no justification to say that the previous government did the same. Outsourcing jobs, whether by the present government or the previous one, is a cruel joke on unemployed youth who are grappling with unemployment. This practice is being carried out at the cost of unemployed youth. It must be abandoned immediately.”

Bukhari made these remarks today while talking to reporters after an event at the party headquarters in Srinagar. The event was organised to extend a warm welcome to several prominent political and social leaders and activists into the party fold.

Those who joined the party included former SMC Srinagar Secretary Sofi Mohammad Akbar, former DDC Member and ex-Zone President of PDP Abdul Qayoom Mir, renowned businessman and Sarparast-e-Aala of the All J&K Wood Suppliers Union Gulzar Ahmad Pardesi, social and political activist Indumeet Singh, and others. They all joined the party along with their respective teams.

On this occasion, party’s president Altaf Bukhari and other senior party leaders extended a warm welcome to the new entrents.

Speaking on the occasion, Bukhari said, “I warmly welcome you all to Apni Party. I am sure that together we will be able to implement the party’s pro-people agenda and policies more effectively. We are here to serve the people and work for peace, prosperity, and development.”

He went on to say, “Apni Party firmly believes that many of the wounds suffered by the people of Jammu and Kashmir have been inflicted over the years and decades by successive governments in Delhi. At the same time, we also believe that the solutions to our challenges will come from Delhi—not from Islamabad, London, or America. Our commitment is to engage constructively and democratically to secure the rights, dignity, and aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.”
Speaking about the harsh propaganda carried out against Apni Party by its political opponents during the 2024 Assembly elections, Bukhari said, “We could not secure victory in the 2024 Assembly elections, perhaps because our opponents resorted to character assassination, false accusations, and propaganda against us. However, today they stand completely exposed before the people.”

“The public now fully understands that they were deceived by the traditional parties through false promises and emotional slogans during the 2024 election campaign. The truth has become evident, and those who misled the people now stand fully exposed,” he added.

Bukhari made a direct appeal to the Prime Minister, urging him to initiate a dialogue with the people of Jammu and Kashmir and address their long-pending issues. He said, “I want to tell the Hon’ble Prime Minister that our people do not demand the moon and the stars. They seek only those same rights that the Constitution guarantees to every citizen of this nation.”

He further said, “Our youth often feel unsafe when they are outside Jammu and Kashmir. Even today, many of them are called to police stations on occasions such as August 15 and January 26. Our youth deserve a sense of security and dignity at home and outside J&K as well. You had promised to engage in dialogue with the people. This is the time to fulfil that promise. What are you waiting for? If you are testing the patience of the people, let me say that their patience is wearing thin. They want the immediate resolution of their genuine issues and grievances. Their aspirations cannot be ignored any longer.”

He expressed grave concern that the elected government has shown no interest in increasing the existing 15-year residency requirement for obtaining domicile in Jammu and Kashmir, despite having the authority to recommend such a change.

He urged the Central Government to take the initiative to extend the residency requirement for domicile eligibility to at least 35 years, if not 50 years. “If such a provision could be made for Himachal Pradesh, why not for Jammu and Kashmir?” he asked.

Bukhari appealed to the administration to ensure that, while making all necessary arrangements for a safe, secure, and smooth Amarnath Yatra, equal attention is given to facilitating the local population. He urged the authorities to ensure that residents do not face unnecessary inconvenience or hardship as a consequence of the security measures put in place for the Yatra.

Besides Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari, the prominent party leaders who were present on the occasion included party’s Senior Vice President Ghulam Hassan Mir, Chairman of the Parliamentary Affairs Committee  Mohammad Dilawar Mir, Provincial President Kahsmir Mohammad Ashraf Mir, Chief Spokesperson & State Secretary Muntazir Mohiuddin, Media Advisor Farooq Andrabi, Secretary organisation & Spokesperson Dr Harbaksh Singh, District President Pulwama Dr Samiullah, Vice President Srinagar & Constituency In-charge Central Shaltang Zaffar Habib, Tajalah Andrabi, and others.

Srinagar, July 01: In a first for a tourist destination in Kashmir, the Gulmarg Development Authority (GDA) has introduced an odd-even vehicle entry system on a trial basis to regulate traffic and safeguard the fragile ecology of the famous hill resort.

According to an order issued by the GDA, the new traffic regulation will come into effect from July 5 and remain in force until August 5 as part of a one-month pilot project.

Under the scheme, private and commercial four-wheelers with registration numbers ending in odd digits (1, 3, 5, 7 and 9) will be allowed to enter Gulmarg only on odd dates. Similarly, vehicles with registration numbers ending in even digits (0, 2, 4, 6 and 8) will be permitted entry only on even dates.

The restrictions will be enforced daily from 8 am to 8 pm.

However, transport and freight vehicles have been exempted from the odd-even regulation.

Chief Executive Officer of the Gulmarg Development Authority, Tariq Hussain, said the initiative aims to assess its effectiveness in managing traffic and reducing environmental stress on the popular tourist destination, reported NDTV.

“The pilot project will be implemented for one month, during which its impact on traffic management, environmental quality and visitor convenience will be evaluated in coordination with the Police, Traffic Administration and other concerned departments,” he said.

The GDA said the measure may be reviewed, modified, extended or withdrawn based on the findings of the pilot project and recommendations of the departments involved.

Gulmarg, one of Kashmir’s most visited tourist destinations, witnesses a sharp increase in vehicular traffic during the peak tourism season. Officials said the resulting congestion has led to deteriorating air quality, rising noise pollution and increasing pressure on the area’s fragile alpine ecosystem.

The authority said the odd-even system is aimed at improving traffic flow, enhancing the visitor experience and helping preserve the ecological balance of the high-altitude resort.

Srinagar, July 1: PDP president Mehbooba Mufti on Wednesday called on the Centre to use Jammu and Kashmir’s strategic geographical location to strengthen ties with Pakistan and China, revive regional cooperation through SAARC, and transform the Union Territory into a gateway linking South Asia and Central Asia.

Referring to recent geopolitical developments, Mufti said countries were increasingly using geography as a strategic advantage.

“The situation in the world is changing. You saw how Iran used its strategic position to bring even a powerful country like the United States under pressure. Jammu and Kashmir, too, has its own strategic geographical position,” she said.

She maintained that the prolonged India-Pakistan dispute over Jammu and Kashmir had prevented the region from realising its economic and strategic potential.

“The PDP has always advocated reconciliation. Jammu and Kashmir has become a battlefield; it should instead become a bridge of peace between the two countries. There should be people-to-people contact, communication and open routes,” she said.

Welcoming recent statements by senior RSS leaders in favour of dialogue, Mufti said she was encouraged that leaders including Mohan Bhagwat and Dattatreya Hosabale had spoken about engagement and cultural exchanges. She also invoked former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s approach towards India’s neighbours.

“I believe the legacy of a Prime Minister is not measured by how powerful he was or how long he remained in office, but by how many conflicts he resolved,” she said.

Mufti argued that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif currently have an opportunity to improve bilateral relations and revive regional cooperation.

She called for the revival of SAARC, saying India should take the lead and make Jammu and Kashmir a hub for regional investment and cooperation.

Highlighting connectivity, Mufti questioned why routes linking Ladakh with historic trade centres such as Khotan, Yarkand and Kashgar remained closed when the Lipulekh route in Uttarakhand had recently been opened.

“Our strategic location enables us to become the gateway between Central Asia and South Asia. This could transform the entire map of Jammu and Kashmir and benefit the whole country,” she said.

Mufti also criticised the Centre’s August 2019 decision to abrogate Articles 370 and 35A, alleging that it had failed to resolve political discontent in the region.

“In 2019, the BJP used what I consider its strongest weapon against Jammu and Kashmir by abrogating Articles 370 and 35A. Yet nothing substantial has been achieved. Even today, people in Jammu and Kashmir continue to feel alienated,” she said.

Describing the present situation in the Union Territory, Mufti alleged that “the region has been turned into an open-air prison” where people lacked the freedom to speak or hold peaceful protests.

She further argued that improving relations with both Pakistan and China would unlock Jammu and Kashmir’s strategic potential and enhance India’s regional influence.

“My point is that just as Iran has the Strait of Hormuz, India has Jammu and Kashmir, which can become the gateway linking Central Asia and South Asia. We should open these routes and use this strategic advantage. That requires better relations with both China and Pakistan,” she said.

Mufti added that such a policy would fundamentally transform Jammu and Kashmir. “Doing so would completely transform Jammu and Kashmir economically, politically and emotionally,” she said.

Budgam, Jul 01: At least twenty-five people, including the driver, on board a passenger bus travelling from Beerwah to Budgam were injured on Wednesday after the vehicle met with an accident at Kawnar in the Nasrullahpora area of central Kashmir’s Budgam district.

“The circumstances leading to the mishap were not immediately known,” official sources said.

Before emergency responders reached the scene, local residents of Nasrullahpora rushed to the spot and launched rescue efforts, helping evacuate the injured passengers from the damaged vehicle.

The injured were shifted to Sub-District Hospital (SDH), Budgam, where they are undergoing treatment.

Police have taken cognizance of the incident and initiated an investigation to ascertain the cause of the accident.

Further details are awaited.