Suhail Rather

Srinagar, March 29(KNS): Senior Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader and former minister Naeem Akhtar on Saturday questioned the utilisation of funds sanctioned for road development in Bandipora, alleging that despite crores of rupees being allocated over the years, the condition of roads in the district remains poor.

Speaking to reporters, Akhtar said residents are aware of how funds meant for improving road infrastructure were used. “I don’t know how many crores were sanctioned for this road and where that money went. The people of Bandipora know where it went. Had the funds been properly utilised, the situation would not have been like this today,” he said.

He said the condition of roads continues to be a major concern for locals and called for immediate intervention by the authorities.

Referring to his tenure as Public Works Minister, Akhtar said he had initiated works to improve connectivity during his time in office. “I was the Public Works Minister for about a year. During that period, a ?32-crore project was taken up, under which surfacing of the Sumbal–Safapora–Bandipora road was completed and some widening was also carried out,” he said.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Akhtar added that several internal road projects were also executed, including routes connecting Nadihal, Arin, Sumlar and Hamdard with Bandipora. The works, he said, involved widening, blacktopping, and construction of two bridges over the Bade Nallah at Wapora and Arin.

He further said that roads linking Atwattoo, Sonarwani and Chandaji were also improved during the same period.

Despite these works, Akhtar said the district continues to face infrastructure gaps. “Bandipora is a district headquarters and it deserves a proper road network. There is a need for a four-lane road and better internal connectivity,” he said.

He added that improved road infrastructure is critical not only for easing movement but also for supporting economic activity and livelihoods in the region. (KNS)