A journalist dissatisfied with his work in the mainstream and a committed Right to Information activist, Sajjad Rasool from Badgam, Kashmir is concerned with the wayward development of his state. In spite of being rich in natural resources and one of the major producers of power, many people in the state still have to manage without basic amenities. According to…
Budgam in Jammu and Kashmir is a district, which is commercially important and also an important landmark on the tourist map. Despite this, the roads in the villages are in shambles. Sajad Rasool, our Community Correspondent takes a look at the abysmal condition of roads in Ringazabal village.
The lack of roads in the village has been standing in the way of its development, as they have no easy access to services such as hospitals, schools and markets. On speaking to the community, Sajad finds that they feel that they are neglected because they belong to the Gujjar tribal community, a community that has been historically socio-economically backward.
What is more infuriating for the village is the fact that politicians only promise roads when an election is approaching. But promises are forgotten fast and any appeals then fall on deaf ears. This story isn’t an isolated one; every other video of Sajad’s points to the dilapidated infrastructure in Budgam.
For the 300 residents of this village, a new road would bring with it a great number of new opportunities—new markets for their produce, new places to work, etc. They are tired of waiting for their road and want one now.
Article By: Amrita Anand
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