Srinagar, May 24: A delegation from the Coordination Committee of Former ULB Presidents, led by Mohammed Iqbal, met with the Hon’ble Lt Governor of J&K today at Raj Bhavan.
The group had a productive chat about issues that directly affect people’s lives, with a focus on peace, stability, and tranquility.
Sofi Arafat, a key member of the delegation, brought up the importance of reopening tourist spots and picnic areas. He explained, “The closure is hitting hard on tourism-related folks—cab drivers, pony-wallas, photographers, shikara-wallas, hotel staff, and more. They’re all struggling to make ends meet. Plus, there’s a lot of investment at stake, worth billions.”
Arafat also pushed for the reopening of major parks and gardens in Pahalgam, Betab Valley, Aru Valley, Achabal, Kokernag, and Verinag, with “proper security assessments, of course.”
Coming from the Pahalgam area, Arafat also requested that the Lt. Governor use his influence to upgrade the PHC Aishmuqam to a CHC or Trauma & Emergency Hospital. “After the assembly segment delimitation, Pahalgam is left without a sub-district hospital. The under-construction Civil Hospital Pahalgam is the perfect candidate for this upgrade,” he added.
Iqbal chimed in, “And let’s not forget about MCH Doru and CHC Verinag/Sagam. They need upgrades and better patient care facilities too.”
Irshad Ahmed discussed the aftermath of recent operations and explored relief and recovery measures.
Other members like Ab Karim Dar, Omar Kakroo, Adv Altaf, Shameema Raina and others emphasized the need for rehabilitation of those affected by attacks and ensuring the smooth conduct of the Amarnath Yatra and Mela Kher Bhawani.
The group also stressed the importance of completing ongoing projects and initiatives for regional development.
Mohammed Iqbal thanked the Hon’ble Lt. Governor for his support and guidance on infrastructure development projects across all municipalities in J&K.
The meeting was all about finding collaborative solutions and making progress on these critical issues facing the region.
