POJK: Many protesters blocked the Neelam Valley Road in Muzaffarabad, PoJK, demanding the immediate relocation of a high-tension line tower situated on a hilltop, citing the risk of landslides and potential accidents.
They attributed the precarious situation to shoddy construction and neglect by the Pakistan Water and Power Development Authority (PWPDA).
Zahir Bukhari, a local leader, highlighted that minor landslides have occurred for the past two years, with the authorities showing disregard for the issue.
He also highlighted the risks to approximately 50 homes in proximity to the high-tension line and the vital significance of Neelam Valley Road for urban traffic flow.
“This serious condition of this hill is because of the poor cutting of the hill. There are at least 50 houses on the other side of this high-tension line which are in danger, and the Neelam Valley Road is a lifeline of the city’s traffic. So, this situation can anytime turn into a major accident for the people said protestor Bukhari.
Despite lodging complaints with the local administration for over two years and a site inspection by the former Deputy Commissioner, there have been no improvements.
“For at least 2 years we have been complaining to the local administration. The previous Deputy Commissioner along with me had come to this very location for an inspection and still, there is no result. Even during the inspection of the DC mini landslides were taking place… now the condition is so bad that it can grow into a life-threatening accident. It is high time that the local administration takes serious action on the matter, but no one is listening to our complaints.” stressed Zahir Bukhari
Other residents also echoed similar sentiments, stating, that despite legal filings, requests, and street protests, the administration has failed to address the issue. Complaints have been escalated to senior authorities in Peshawar, yet no measures have been taken to resolve the problem.