MUZAFFARABAD (Kashmir English): Neglected by authorities, Muzaffarabad’s Neelum River walkway, built two decades ago for public recreation, has fallen into disrepair with broken tracks, missing fencing, and increasing encroachments.
Government institutions are established to promote public welfare and donate to a country’s progress, yet many state-run divisions in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), have failed to deliver even the most essential services to the people. A clear example of this is the run-down condition of the once-popular Neelum River walkway.
Two decades ago, a considerable sum was expended on constructing a scenic walkway along the banks of the Neelum River, stretching from Chella Bridge to Sathra, to provide a recreational area for both locals and visitors from other parts of Azad Kashmir. Yet, in recent years, the indifference and carelessness of the concerned authorities have left this public structure in a state of complete ruin.
The walkway, once a well-maintained pedestrian way, now compares to a dumped course, with large sections either broken or overtaken by encroachments. Millions of rupees were spent from the public treasury to install protective iron grills along the walkway, but much of it has either been stolen or left to decay. Some parts were reportedly taken away by junk dealers, while others have simply crumbled due to a lack of maintenance.
Additionally, what was initially designed as a dedicated pedestrian area has now been turned into a dumping ground. Locals have started using the walkway for household sewage disposal and even tying their livestock along the path. The once clean and scenic track is now littered with garbage, making it impossible for citizens, including tourists and locals, to walk there comfortably.
Despite the evident damage to this public structure, there has been no intervention from the authorities. What was imagined as a serene recreational space for the individuals of Muzaffarabad has now become a blemish, symbolising official neglect and the wastage of public funds.
With no supervision or repair measures in sight, locals fear that if the situation remains untouched, the Neelum River walkway will soon disappear entirely. The question remains: will the authorities take notice before it is too late?
