Mufti demands divisional status, rail connectivity for Chenab valley

Former Chief Minister and People’s Democratic Party president Mehbooba Mufti on Saturday interacted with civil society members in Doda under the party’s ‘Baat Cheet’ grassroots dialogue initiative.

Addressing the gathering, Mufti said that the Chenab valley had remained neglected for decades despite its immense human and natural potential. “The people of Chenab valley deserve dignity, development and equal opportunities,” she said.

She reiterated the demand for divisional status for the region and the establishment of a High Court division bench to improve access to justice. Stressing the importance of connectivity, she said the Kapran–Dessa tunnel, Sudhmahadev–Mammat tunnel and rail connectivity were essential to ensure all-weather access and balanced regional development.

Highlighting the tourism potential of the region, Mufti called for planned and sustainable development through the creation of a Doda Development Authority to generate employment for local youth while safeguarding local interests.

On social infrastructure, she demanded the establishment of a Cluster University in Doda and the urgent upgradation of education and healthcare facilities. She also called for a women’s degree college and skill-based institutions to empower young women and make them job-ready.

Raising concerns over natural resource management, Mufti said blue sapphire mining should be opened to the public under existing laws to ensure transparency and benefit local communities. She further stressed that power projects must prioritise local employment and utilise CSR funds for catchment area development and community welfare.

Concluding her address, she said the ‘Baat Cheet’ initiative aimed to rebuild trust through dialogue and ensure that voices from remote and marginalised regions such as the Chenab valley were reflected in policy-making.