Srinagar May 20 (KNS): CPI (M) leader Mohamad Yousuf Tarigami has expressed deep shock and grief over the collapse of a tunnel at Khoni nallah area of District Ramban in which one labourer died, three rescued and several others are trapped under the debris.

The claims being made by the government on development in J&K is not a reality. Ramban-Banihal stretch of the national highway, which is a vital surface link between Kashmir and the rest of country could not be constructed despite several deadlines and thus there is a lot of resentment among the local population. Repeated promises made by the government to address the issues and its non-fulfillment have created a sense of disillusionment and distrust. The continued delay in the four-lanning of the highway is one of the many issues that the people are facing.

While expressing solidarity with the bereaved family, he asked the administration to gear up the rescue operation at the site and demanded ex-gratia relief for the victim family, free of cost treatment to those injured in the accident. (KNS)