JAMMU, Aug 4: Mission Statehood Jammu & Kashmir President Sunil Dimple on Tuesday led a protest rally at Janipur High Court Chowk against the proposed construction of a flyover from Amphalla to Bantalab via New Plot, Tali Morh, Old Janipur and Roop Nagar.
The demonstration witnessed participation from traders, shopkeepers, local residents and other stakeholders, who expressed concerns over the impact of the proposed project on businesses and residential areas.
Addressing the gathering, Dimple strongly opposed the government’s decision to approve tenders for the flyover project, alleging that the work has already been allotted to a private company without adequate consultation with the affected people.
He claimed that the proposed flyover would adversely affect the livelihoods of traders and residents who have been living and conducting business in the area for several decades. Dimple urged the Jammu and Kashmir Government to hold consultations with traders, residents, shopkeepers and other stakeholders before proceeding with the project.
Instead of the proposed flyover, Dimple demanded the construction of an exclusive circular ring road connecting Amphalla, Manda, Janipur High Court, Lakkar Mandi, Roop Nagar and Akhnoor. He also called for the introduction of a Metro train service from Manda to Akhnoor, saying it would provide a more sustainable solution to the city’s traffic issues.
Describing the affected localities as among Jammu’s oldest residential and commercial areas, Dimple appealed to the government to reconsider the project.
He warned that if the proposal is not withdrawn, the protest would be intensified through dharnas, hunger strikes, large-scale demonstrations involving affected families and, if necessary, a Jammu Bandh.
Among those who participated in the protest were Ashwani Kumar, Jai Raj Pandita, Kaka Ram, Ishan Kumar, Rocky Kumar, Vicky Kumar, Ashwani Nayar, Rattan Lal Bhat, Sushiel Kumar and several other supporters.