KTMF seeks rehabilitation package for traders affected by Nagbal–Wayil road expansion project

Ziraat Times News Desk

Ganderbal, June 12: The Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers Federation (KTMF) has urged the government to ensure proper rehabilitation and compensation for traders and shopkeepers likely to be affected by the proposed Nagbal–Wayil road expansion project, stressing that development initiatives should not come at the cost of people’s livelihoods.

A delegation of traders and business representatives led by KTMF President Mohammad Yaseen Khan met Member of Parliament Mian Altaf Ahmad at his residence in Kangan on Thursday to discuss concerns of traders, particularly those operating in Beehama market in Ganderbal, whose establishments may be impacted by the proposed road widening project.

During the meeting, the delegation conveyed that while the trading community fully supports infrastructure development and public welfare projects, the concerns of hundreds of traders and shopkeepers facing possible displacement must be addressed. The delegation maintained that affected business owners should receive adequate compensation and be properly rehabilitated before any eviction or demolition process is initiated.

Speaking on the occasion, KTMF President Mohammad Yaseen Khan said traders are not opposed to development but emphasized that many families depend entirely on their businesses for survival.

“Many affected families rely solely on their shops and business establishments for their livelihood. They also have financial obligations, including bank loans, employee salaries and family responsibilities. Therefore, a comprehensive rehabilitation plan must be put in place before any displacement takes place,” Khan said.

The delegation also included Traders Federation Ganderbal President Ghulam Hassan Parra and senior federation functionaries Ashfaq Ahmad Lankar and Zahoor Ahmad Bhat. They apprised the Member of Parliament of the concerns and apprehensions of the local business community regarding the proposed project.

Mian Altaf Ahmad gave a patient hearing to the delegation and assured the traders that he would make every effort to safeguard their interests. He said he would take up the matter with the concerned authorities and stressed that development projects should be implemented in a manner that protects the livelihood and dignity of the people.

The KTMF expressed hope that the government would adopt a balanced and humane approach by ensuring proper rehabilitation and engaging meaningfully with all stakeholders affected by the project before proceeding further.

The federation reiterated that development and public welfare must go hand in hand and called for measures that would protect both infrastructure goals and the economic security of affected traders.