Govt approves tunnel and road under irrigation canal in Tahab, Pulwama
Ends long-standing demand as residents welcome move
Pulwama: In a boost to local infrastructure, the government has approved the construction of a tunnel along with a road beneath the irrigation canal in Tahab village of Pulwama district, fulfilling a long-standing demand of the residents.
The project is expected to significantly improve connectivity in the area, particularly benefiting people of Tahab and several adjoining villages who have for years faced difficulties in commuting due to the irrigation canal passing through the locality.
Locals said the absence of a proper crossing had been creating serious inconvenience for pedestrians, students, farmers and motorists, forcing them to take longer alternative routes to reach nearby markets, schools and health facilities.
Residents expressed gratitude to the authorities for addressing the issue, stating that the project will not only ease daily travel but will also support agricultural activities in the region.
A local resident, Abdul Rashid, said the approval of the tunnel and road is a huge relief for the villagers who had been raising the issue for many years.
“For a long time, people here were facing problems while crossing the canal, especially during the agricultural season. Farmers had to take a long detour to reach their fields. This project will make our lives much easier,” he said.
Another resident, Ghulam Mohammad, said the initiative will improve connectivity between several villages and facilitate smooth transportation.
“Students, elderly people and patients used to struggle while crossing the canal area. With the construction of a tunnel and proper road, movement will become safer and faster,” he added.
Farmers in the area also welcomed the decision, saying that better connectivity will help them transport agricultural produce more conveniently.
Bashir Ahmad, a local farmer, said improved access will particularly benefit orchardists and vegetable growers in the area.
“Agriculture is the backbone of our livelihood here. When roads are better, it becomes easier to take produce to markets and bring farming inputs to our fields,” he said.
Locals further said that the project will play an important role in strengthening rural infrastructure and boosting overall development in the region.
They also urged authorities to ensure that the construction work begins at the earliest and is completed within the stipulated timeframe so that people can start benefiting from the facility without further delay.
Residents expressed hope that the government will continue to focus on improving road connectivity and basic infrastructure in rural areas to support the needs of the growing population and the farming community.
