KARGIL: On the momentous occasion of August 5th, marking the anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370, Haji Anayat Ali, Prabhari BJP Kargil, highlighted the significant progress and future vision for the region of Ladakh, particularly Kargil.
Haji Anayat Ali announced a substantial increase in funding for the Zojila Tunnel project, which has risen from Rs 1,136 crore to Rs 6,000 crore. "The Zojila Tunnel is a game-changer for Kargil, ensuring year-round connectivity with Srinagar and Leh. This will not only boost our economy but also significantly reduce travel time," he stated.
He also emphasized the importance of the proposed alternative road connectivity from Keylong to Leh via Darcha in the Zanskar Valley. "This new route will mitigate the issues caused by frequent blockages on the Manali-Leh road, enhancing accessibility and promoting regional trade and tourism," Haji Anayat Ali added.
The powers of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils (LAHDC) have been significantly augmented. "We have successfully increased the constituency funds for our councillors, enabling more effective implementation of local development projects. During the COVID-19 lockdown, special funds were allocated for LAHDC Kargil, which were utilized for the evacuation of stranded people, demonstrating our commitment to responsive governance," he noted. The evacuation of the stranded Zawars of Kargil from Iran was personally monitored by Hon’ble PM Narendra Modi, who stated during the Rajat Jayanti of Kargil Vijay Diwas that he has a special place for the people of Kargil in his heart.
In alignment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of a Carbon Neutral Ladakh, Haji Anayat Ali highlighted ongoing and future initiatives. "We are working closely with the Central Government on multiple fronts, including healthcare, traditional medicine, education, tourism, and infrastructure development. Notably, the Rs 50,000 crore grid-connected solar photovoltaic project aimed at harnessing 7,500 MW of solar power is a significant step towards sustainable energy for our region," he said.
Haji Anayat Ali underscored the monumental achievements in the field of sports. "The abrogation of Article 370 has opened new avenues for our athletes, allowing them to compete at national and international levels. This provides our youth with the platform they need to showcase their talents and achieve global recognition," he emphasized.
Haji Anayat Ali expressed optimism about the future of Kargil and Ladakh. "We are on a path of significant transformation. With continued support from the Central Government and the dedicated efforts of our local leaders and residents, we are poised for a prosperous and sustainable future," he concluded. He further said that after Ladakh became a UT, development is happening with double speed and with Narendra Modi at the Centre, Ladakh in general and Kargil in particular will get maximum benefit which people in Ladakh better accept.
Recently, PM Narendra Modi at the Rajat Jayanti Celebrations of Kargil Vijay Diwas conducted the first blast of Shinkula Tunnel on NPD Road which will help in reducing travel time. The road connectivity in all villages has improved after Ladakh became a UT with full macadamiazation. There is water at every doorstep after the successful completion of the Jal Jeevan Mission. Digital connectivity has been drastically improved, and every nook and corner of UT Ladakh has been connected with mobile connectivity.
It was the result of the abrogation of Article 370 that our officers have been getting their due share of promotions. Engineers from Ladakh are now at the rank of Chief Engineers, and others are also getting due promotions. Officials of the Police Department, who were out of their homes for more than 25 years, are now posted at their doorstep, thanks to the abrogation of Article 370. The development of official complexes and office modernization is only possible due to the abrogation of Article 370, providing a better working space for the employees.
Haji Anayat Ali said, "If we go back to being part of the state of Jammu and Kashmir, will we get such benefits under the Government of J&K? Can those who talk about remerging with J&K state bring such a flow of funds for the welfare of the people? These people are only talking about their own benefit and were just spectators when they were in power in the erstwhile J&K state."
Haji Anayat Ali expressed his sorrow and grief over the recent landsliding event at Kabadi Nallah and urged the LG Ladakh to relocate the affected families and the entire Silmo colony to a safer place, declaring the area an unsafe zone due to its high disaster risk.