Ramban Jammu and Kashmir: In a significant breakthrough for the
people of Ramban, the long-standing issue of traffic congestion caused by
the diversion of vehicles through Maitra and over the Jula Bridge has
finally been resolved. This outcome follows weeks of mounting public
frustration and a powerful protest led by Senior Congress Leader and
Advocate Fairoz Khan.
The protest, held on March 28 at Masjid Market, witnessed massive
participation from the Auto Union, Beopar Mandal, Ramban Bar
Association, Students’ Union, and numerous civil society groups.
Protesters demanded an end to the chaotic diversion policy that had
severely disrupted daily life and affected commuters, students, patients,
and local businesses.
Today, on April 5, 2025, a conclusive meeting was held between the
public delegation led by Senior Congress Leader Adv. Fairoz Khan and
the Deputy Commissioner Ramban, Mr. Baseer-ul-Haq Chaudhary,
during which the grievances of the people were firmly presented. The
Deputy Commissioner responded promptly and positively, agreeing
to immediately halt the diversion of traffic through Maitra via the Jula
Bridge.
Additionally, the administration has assured the following:
Traffic will no longer be diverted through Maitra, except for emergency
services.
Irregularities in toll collection and subletting practices will be reviewed
and resolved in a time-bound manner. Local unemployed youth will be given priority for employment in upcoming highway construction projects.
Companies awarded tenders will be instructed to expedite work on the
remaining stretch of the National Highway.
“This is a victory for every resident of Ramban. We stood united in
our demand for justice, and today, the administration has
responded. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all the supporting
organizations and citizens who stood with us in this movement,”
said Adv. Fairoz Khan.
He also expressed appreciation to Deputy Commissioner Mr.
Baseer-ul-Haq Chaudhary for his prompt and responsible
intervention, adding, “We are hopeful that the other critical issues
raised today will also be resolved in a timely manner.”
This resolution marks a vital step in restoring normalcy to Ramban’s
traffic system and reasserting the public’s right to safety, accountability,
and infrastructure that prioritizes their needs.
However, the movement remains vigilant. Should the issue resurface or if
the administrative commitments are not fulfilled, the people of Ramban
are ready to resume the protest with greater strength and unity.
The voice of Ramban has been heard. The fight for justice and people’s
rights continues.
The delegation members included:Farooq Ahmed Katoch, Ishaq Ahmed Khanday, Naseer Wani, Pardeep Raju, Dharam Veer Drora, Pervaiz Wani, Masood Khan, Jhangir Katoch, Irfan Katoch, Zakir Choudhary, Iqlaq Poswal, Shakeel, Man Singh, Param Veer, Bantu, Hoshiyar Singh, Hukum Chand, Rinku and others.
