Mian Altaf Ahmad Larvi, Member of Parliament from the National Conference, has strongly supported villagers opposing the proposed Bijbehara–Pahalgam railway line in south Kashmir.
Addressing a public gathering at Wularhama village in Anantnag around January 25, 2026, the MP said the proposed rail project has no clear justification and is not needed at present.
Mian Altaf said there is already good road connectivity between Bijbehara and Pahalgam, and extending a railway line to the tourist town does not serve any practical purpose. He described the project as unnecessary and pointless, especially when it threatens local livelihoods.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
He warned that the proposed alignment could damage fertile apple orchards, paddy fields, and agricultural land, which are the main source of income for hundreds of families in the area. According to him, the project could cause serious economic loss to farmers and disturb the agrarian character of south Kashmir.
The MP also dismissed claims circulating about the railway line, saying much of the discussion is based on rumours. He added that he has not seen any official approval, detailed plan, or strong reason for the project so far.
Assuring the villagers of his full support, Mian Altaf said he would raise the issue in Parliament and take it up directly with the Railway Ministry. He promised to oppose the project at every appropriate forum to protect the interests of local residents.
The issue has triggered growing opposition in areas such as Bijbehara and nearby villages. Locals fear that the railway line—reported to be around 77.5 kilometres in parts—could destroy farmland, apple orchards, and disrupt rural life in south Kashmir.
Similar protests were reported earlier from villages like Dirhama, where residents also raised concerns about land acquisition and lack of consultation. Some other political voices have echoed these concerns, calling for proper dialogue with locals before moving ahead with such projects.
The issue highlights the ongoing debate in Jammu and Kashmir between infrastructure development and the need to preserve agricultural land and local livelihoods.
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