SUDHNOTI (Kashmir English): A wave of public discontent has swept through Union Council Hamrota in Sudhnoti, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), as citizens protest against the government’s failure to reconstruct a vital 16-kilometre road linking Chhatriari Gajan to Baloch Tehsil.
The road, which serves over 25,000 residents, has reportedly deteriorated to a dangerous state, resulting in frequent accidents. Local residents claim the road has been neglected for over eight years, making it nearly impassable and unsuitable for heavy traffic.
Protest demonstrations were held in multiple locations, including Thandi Kassi and Gajan. These symbolic protests were attended by members of the United Youth Forum Hamrota, the Traders Association, the Transport Union, and large numbers of local citizens.
Speakers at the protests criticised both past and present governments for their lack of action. They urged the Azad Jammu and Kashmir government, particularly Minister for Tourism and Minerals Sardar Faheem Akhtar Rabbani, to take immediate and serious notice of the issue.
The protestors demanded the complete reconstruction and realignment of the road to make it suitable for modern transportation, especially heavy vehicles.
A clear warning was issued by the organisers, who announced the launch of a structured movement to pressure the government. They warned that continued refusal of their demands would lead to a complete wheel-jam blockade, shutting down transportation and business operations throughout the area.
The ongoing demonstrations reflect the growing frustration over delayed infrastructure development and the mounting hostility of local communities toward government inaction. Rural connectivity requires immediate investment, as it guarantees both economic prosperity and public safety.
Protestors in Hamrota still await a response from the administration, even as their peaceful defiance highlights a long-standing legacy of neglect.
