The Kashmir Pulse

PULWAMA — The road from Dalipora to Chatapora via Industrial Estates in Pulwama, which falls within the jurisdiction of Jammu and Kashmir Small Scale Industries Development Corporation Limited (SICOP) and the Roads and Buildings (R&B) Department, has become a symbol of neglect and frustration for the local population. Despite numerous pleas, the road's dismal state has persisted for a decade, leading to significant inconvenience and posing risks for the community.

Residents of the area have expressed their grievances and concerns through a collective appeal addressed to the authorities. The road, having evolved into a bypass connecting Rajpora Road with Murran Road, has become a vital link for Pulwama's traffic. However, its decrepit condition has led to a host of problems, affecting not only the residents' daily commutes but also the safety of all road users.

One resident, who wished to remain anonymous, conveyed the residents' shared anguish. "We've been grappling with this issue for far too long. The road's condition has worsened over the years, and it's simply unacceptable that our pleas have gone unanswered. Our safety is compromised, and our patience has worn thin," the resident commented.

Nasreen Bano, a local resident, shared her frustration. "We've repeatedly appealed to the concerned authorities for action, but to no avail. Our lives are disrupted, our vehicles suffer damage, and the safety of pedestrians is compromised due to the road's state."

In a bid to address the situation, Mr Ab Aziz Shiekh (JKAS), the former Additional District Development Commissioner Pulwama, had visited the road stretch some months back. Despite his visit, there has been no visible progress, exacerbating the residents' dissatisfaction.

Local residents shared their views on the lack of response from the authorities. "It's disappointing that our concerns haven't been taken seriously. We expected action after the official's visit, but nothing has changed. The road's condition continues to deteriorate," said another resident.

PULWAMA — In an ongoing effort to eliminate the scourge of drugs from society, Pulwama Police took action by booking two notorious drug peddlers under the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (PIT NDPS Act).

In this connection, formal detention orders from the competent authority were obtained to bring these individuals to justice.

The identified drug peddlers are Imtiyaz Ahmad Ganie, son of Late Wali Mohd Ganie, residing in Chatapora, and Javaid Ahmad Ganai, son of Mohd. Shaban Ganai, residing in Loolipora Nehama.

Both individuals have been linked to multiple NDPS cases registered in various police stations within the district, actively contributing to the promotion of drug addiction by supplying narcotics to the local youth of District Pulwama.

The community members of Pulwama have expressed their appreciation for the proactive role played by Pulwama Police in taking swift action against these notorious drug peddlers.

The consistent efforts of Pulwama Police against drug peddlers aim to reassure the public that law enforcement is dedicated to maintaining a drug-free society.

PULWAMA — Anyone who has had the opportunity to go through Pulwama's Rajpora Chowk and watch the maze-like traders yelling out various prices would attest to the fact that the location exudes a certain type of charm. But many people are unaware that something much more interesting lurks within this busy street.

As you'll find out, there's a stall, Matka Kulfi, that's been there for months that sells the purest yet tasty ice creams that anyone won't stop raving about after tasting just a single bite.

Ghulam Nabi Malik, who lives in Chatapora area of the south Kashmir district, is the man behind the ice cream spot, which has been getting popular among the locals within a short span of three months.

According to Malik, he used to sell these ice creams some 20 years ago but resumed the business again after two decades. "I started selling ice creams again after Eid al-Fitr this year and the response of the customers is just amazing. Whoever takes a bite of the ice cream is all praise for the purity and delicious taste," Malik says.

He added that due to some personal issues, unfolding situations and also the recent lockdowns, he could not continue the business. "But this year, I finally decided to resume the same as I had no other option."

The 60-year-old ice cream seller earns an average of Rs 3000 per day and is a real-life example of how even a small stall can become a good earning source for people who have very little money to invest.

Claiming that there are no unhealthy ingredients in his ice creams, Malik says that he makes the ice creams himself and doesn't compromise on the quality of the ingredients.

Accepting employment opportunities have dwindled for the youth in Jammu and Kashmir, especially after the Coronavirus-induced lockdown, the sexagenarian says that young people need to start with a small venture and then scale the same to not only earn for themselves but become an employer. "It involves an element of risk but it is worth it," Malik says with a smile.