Suhail Rather 

Kupwara, Mar 20 (KNS): Residents of Mirwayen and Bongam villages in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district have sought immediate introduction of basic transport services, saying the absence of connectivity has left them effectively cut off despite their proximity to the town.

The two villages, located around seven kilometres from Kupwara town, have never had a regular passenger vehicle service, locals said.

They said residents are forced to walk for nearly 20 minutes to reach the nearest point to board transport.

“We have never seen a passenger vehicle operating from our villages to Kupwara. Most households have been compelled to purchase their own vehicles, often on loans, due to the lack of public transport,” a resident said.

The lack of connectivity has also affected students and working individuals, locals said, adding that those studying in Srinagar and Baramulla face difficulties commuting, especially during late hours.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

“Our children are often forced to stay back in town or with relatives as there is no transport available to reach the village after evening hours,” another resident said.

Residents expressed dissatisfaction over what they termed years of official inaction and unfulfilled assurances.

They urged the authorities to introduce mini-buses or passenger vehicles to improve connectivity.

The absence of transport services has disrupted daily life and raised concerns over development in the area, they added(KNS).