Traders in IIOJK Protest Basic Neglect

Traders in Ganderbal district of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir have reached a breaking point, shutting down their shops to protest the authorities’ blatant disregard for basic amenities.

Shopkeepers in Tawheed Chowk market voiced their exasperation over the persistent lack of essential services. Their grievances include unreliable power supply, poor street lighting, and a dysfunctional drainage system—issues that have been ignored for far too long.

Arif Bashir Butt, president of the Bazar Committee Tawheed Chowk, articulated their urgent demands. “We need round-the-clock electricity and immediate solutions to these ongoing problems,” he stated. His frustration is palpable as he described the absurdity of the situation, where one side of the market enjoys electricity while the other is left in darkness.

The failures extend beyond power outages. The traders are also contending with inadequate drainage and poor lighting, which further exacerbate their struggles. “These issues need immediate attention,” Butt insisted, highlighting the growing desperation among local businesses.

Despite their repeated attempts to engage with authorities, their concerns have fallen on deaf ears. Butt expressed disappointment over the empty promises they received. “We were assured that smart meters would be installed for a continuous supply, but even after installation, round-the-clock electricity remains elusive,” he lamented.

This protest is not just about power; it symbolizes the broader neglect faced by traders in the IIOJK. The lack of basic infrastructure not only hampers daily operations but also threatens the livelihoods of those who depend on their businesses.

The inaction from the authorities sends a clear message: the needs of local traders are secondary to bureaucratic indifference. The situation is untenable, and the ongoing neglect cannot continue without repercussions.

The traders’ shutdown is a desperate plea for attention. They demand accountability and action, not just promises that lead nowhere. The local government must recognize the severity of these issues and act decisively to address them.

Ignoring the demands of the traders will only fuel further unrest. The economic impact of these shortcomings is severe, and without immediate improvements, local businesses risk collapse.

In a region where commerce is vital, basic services are non-negotiable. The Indian occupation authorities must prioritize the needs of the community over dejure bureaucratic inertia.

The traders of Ganderbal have made their voices heard, and the time for action is now. It’s time for the local government to stop dragging its feet and start addressing the pressing issues that affect the lives and livelihoods of its citizens. The frustration is palpable, and the consequences of inaction will be dire.