As a part of the growing railway network and other infra-structural activities in Kashmir , extension of railway line from Kakapora, Pulwama, to Shopian is under way. The project has evoked mixed reactions among the people who are likely to get affected on its completion. These reactions border on extremes. For some the rail line will bring prosperity to the area as it will facilitate economical, faster and round the year transportation of passengers and the goods – to and fro Kashmir. They say it will be big boost for the horticulture industry which is the mainstay of the local economy, as it will help speedy and cost effective transportation of apple fruit to the markets across country. Many see it the other way round: they feel railway extension will mean an economic and ecological disaster for the area as layout of the track will result in cutting down of lacs of fruit bearing and other kinds of trees . On the face of it, both arguments seem to carry merit.
It is true that today’s available mode of transport is proving inadequate to the ever-growing needs of passenger and goods movement. It is equally true that the rail connectivity has enhanced economic and social profile of the place it has touched and the areas it has passed through. It could be so in the case of Kakpora – Shopian rail project also. But then, here, one has to consider the terrain it will pass through, the sparse fertile agricultural land and above all the size and count of the acreage of orchards having apple trees will come under the track. According to an approximate estimate, about five lac apple bearing tress will get felled down, resulting in loss of fifty lacs of fruit boxes ( ten boxes per tree), which in turn will translate into loss of millions of rupees to the small and medium apple growers and the fruit traders of the affected area. When put on a comparative scale, loss suffered will far outweigh the gain which may accrue to some on rollout of the rail project .
Then there is a third angle to the matter, probably the most significant one – ecological and environmental implications. It is a statement of fact that cutting down of lacs of green and healthy tress (fruit bearing or otherwise ) impacts environment and creates ecological concerns of serious nature. Every infrastructure project has inbuilt tendency to disturb ecology. How serious it could be, depends on the volume and size of the proposed project? Therefore it becomes important to engage local people in the decision making process before there is a movement on this account. In case the development is lop-sided it will be against the broader interests of the people in general . The reported alignment of the rail project is most likely to impact ecological imperatives adversely.
In the context of global climate change – often witnessed these days – any tinkering with J&K’s fragile topography will spell disaster. If any proof is required in this regard, last year’s frequent and unprecedented cloud bursts, landslides, floods and sunny winters may suffice . The National Highway received a massive hit. That makes it imperative for all to have regard for ecological governance.
Undoubtedly, previous summer’s experience of surface road blockades and consequent delayed transportation of the perishable commodity like fresh fruit has brought added focus on the need of alternate and whether compliant mode of the transport. A railway , without any saying , could provide one. Seen in the context, importance of having railroad to reach apple orchards can’t be underestimated .
It is desirable to protect local economic resources and ensure cost effective and all weather transport facility. Rail on the tracks will provide one such mode and ensure growth. But that growth has to a sustainable and people friendly. A symbiotic and a beneficial relationship rather than a mutually destructive one is called for. Being a native, I can say that given the terrain of the area, it shouldn’t be difficult to find a mutually beneficial way to accommodate both the viewpoints. Parallel to the road joining Kakapora railway station and the proposed railway station in Shopian, many barren stretches of land are available, which with some additions and alterations can be utilized for the purpose. Both, the rail project and fruit trade must survive in a friendly environment.
B L SARAF, former Principal District & Sessions Judge
