The project spans 2.35 kilometres with an estimated cost of ₹224–250 crore. Inaugurated on 5 January 2025. Local residents say their concerns were ignored. There is an urgent need for fair compensation. The voices of the people cannot be ignored in the name of development.
Muteen Majeed
Development is often seen as a sign of progress, bringing better connectivity and economic opportunities. However, in Banihal, the construction of a flyover from Kharpora has raised serious concerns among local residents, especially the inhabitants of Hollin and Kharpora villages. What is being celebrated as infrastructure growth and development is turning into fear and distress for many families, as cracks have appeared in their homes.
The project, named the Banihal Bypass, spans 2.35 kilometres in length, with a viaduct length of 1,513 metres, including four major viaducts and three culverts. The estimated cost of the project is approximately ₹224–250 crore. Construction began around 2020–2021, and the flyover became operational on 5 January 2025, inaugurated by the Honourable MLA Sajjad Shaheen. The MLA at that time proposed naming the Banihal Bypass Bridge as the Sher-e-Kashmir Bridge and the Banihal Tunnel as the Dr Manmohan Singh Tunnel.
Over the past months, many residents living near the constructed flyover have reported visible cracks in the walls, ceilings, and foundations of their houses. These cracks are not merely superficial—they indicate deeper structural issues that threaten the safety of entire households. Locals say that the continuous movement of heavy vehicles is the primary source of the damage. More than seventy families have been affected.
The damage, however, is not limited to post-construction vehicle movement. The very process of constructing the flyover also caused harm. Vibrations generated during construction operations travel through the ground, weakening the foundations of nearby buildings. Over time, this has resulted in the formation of cracks, which may widen and lead to severe structural damage.
For affected families, the issue goes beyond physical damage. A home is not just a structure—it represents security, stability, and years of hard work. Watching it deteriorate due to external forces creates emotional stress and financial uncertainty. Many families now live in constant fear, unsure whether their homes will withstand future environmental pressures.
While speaking with local residents of Hollin, Banihal, one resident narrated his plight and suffering: “During the construction, we faced many problems and reported them to the administration, but no action was taken. The home that was supposed to provide comfort is no longer providing comfort. The continuous movement of vehicles is disturbing our children’s studies.”
While infrastructure development is necessary for the region’s growth, it must not come at the cost of public safety. Proper planning and strict monitoring are essential to ensure that progress does not harm surrounding communities. Unfortunately, the experiences of nearby residents suggest that these safeguards may not have been adequately implemented.
There is an urgent need for authorities to take immediate action. Affected houses must be fairly compensated. The voices of the people cannot be ignored in the name of development. Progress that shakes the very foundations of homes is not progress—it is a failure of responsibility.
mu**********@***il.com