Bandipora: Under the leadership of the Lieutenant Governor in Jammu and Kashmir, the Hajin town in north Kashmir’s Bandipora district is experiencing a remarkable transformation after years of neglect. Local residents, once disillusioned by empty promises and minimal development, are now witnessing substantial progress that addresses their long-standing grievances.
Historically significant and culturally rich, Hajin had been overlooked for years, its potential exploited for personal interests during elections, only to be abandoned afterwards, the locals said, adding that under the LG’s rule, the town is finally receiving the attention it deserves.
They said crucial developments, such as road macadamization, construction of public buildings, the establishment of a mini secretariat, installation of a drainage system, and improvement of inner link roads, are fulfilling the town’s pressing needs.
Since the year 2000, successive NC-PDP regimes consistently neglected this region, treating it with indifference in terms of development, they said.
According to local resident, Abdul Rehman, the neglect faced by Hajin was apparent in various sectors. “The drainage system, incomplete for years, caused inconveniences, especially during the rainy season. Roads, left in disrepair for almost four decades, became hazardous. Requests for repairs had gone unanswered, leaving locals at risk. Additionally, the old hospital suffered from neglect, leading to a decline in its facilities,” he said.
He added, “From 2007 to 2018, only a meagre 5 percent of the allocated funds were disbursed. The completion of the drainage system and inner drains became possible only during the LG’s rule, fulfilling the long-held aspirations of the people of Hajin.”
Haji Bashir Ahmad, another resident, highlighted the absence of a proper drainage system, which led to inconveniences during rainy seasons, often causing flooding. He hailed the significant improvement in road conditions, mentioning that it had been 36 years since the roads were last properly macadamized. He commended the efforts of the elected counsellors, led by Apni Party leader Imteyaz Parray, and the chairman, who worked “tirelessly” to bring about these changes.
Sajad Ahmad, a student, pointed out the delayed establishment of a Government Degree College in Hajin, a demand long held by the town’s residents. He expressed disappointment with the “false promises” made by politicians in the past, which were only fulfilled in 2020.
Imtiyaz Parray emphasized their commitment to making Hajin the best town in Jammu and Kashmir. “This is our mission and vision as this town has been neglected by everyone so far,” he said.
Targeting several political parties without naming anyone, Parray said they are trying to sabotage the developmental works in Hajin but they are determined to fail. “They can’t digest and see the development of Hajin since we have taken office in Municipal Committee Hajin,” he said.
Officials said that several long-pending projects were finally addressed by the LG administration following discussions with the delegation from the Municipal Committee Hajin, which included elected representatives.