R&B Sub-Division says poles erected without NOC, road width reduced, seeks immediate relocation
Suhail Rather
Bandipora, Dec 18 (KNS): The Roads & Buildings (R&B) Sub-Division Bandipora has raised serious objections over the installation of electric poles along the Aragam–Chanpal road, stating that the work was carried out without obtaining prior permission from the department.
According to an official communication addressed to the Executive Engineer, R&B Division Bandipora, the Assistant Executive Engineer has pointed out that electric poles were erected at several locations including Aragam, Garoora, Brar and Chanpal without securing a mandatory No Objection Certificate (NOC). A copy of the letter is available with the news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS).
The letter states that the concerned executing agency failed to coordinate with the R&B authorities before undertaking the work. It further highlights that the road in question is already narrow and the installation of poles along its edges has significantly reduced the effective carriage width, posing serious safety risks for commuters and pedestrians.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Terming the situation hazardous, the R&B Sub-Division has sought immediate relocation of the poles to suitable locations. It has also emphasized that no such works should be carried out in future without prior approval and proper coordination with the department.
Meanwhile, residents of the affected villages have also voiced strong resentment over the haphazard placement of poles. Abdul Rashid, a shopkeeper from Aragam, said that the road has become extremely dangerous. “Vehicles face difficulty in crossing, and pedestrians are left with hardly any space to walk,” he said.
Echoing similar concerns, Mohammad Shafi, a resident of Chanpal, said lack of planning has caused inconvenience to everyone. “Such works should be executed only after proper consultation with all concerned departments,” he added.
The locals have appealed to the Deputy Commissioner Bandipora and other concerned authorities to intervene immediately, relocate the poles and ensure safe and smooth movement for the public. (KNS)