EPG Raises Environmental Concerns Over Srinagar-Pahalgam Road Project

19 Mar 2025 CW Team

The Environmental Policy Group (EPG) has voiced strong opposition to the proposed Srinagar-Pahalgam road via Khrew, warning of severe ecological damage and biodiversity loss. The project, which involves felling 845 trees and acquiring 108 kanals of forest land, has raised alarms among environmentalists who argue that the environmental costs far outweigh the benefits, including a 30-kilometre reduction in travel distance.

With two existing roads already linking Srinagar and Pahalgam, the EPG questions the necessity of a third route. The group also warns that tunneling alternatives could weaken rock formations, disrupt water sources, and pose significant risks in the seismically active Zone 5. Citing past environmental disasters in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, the EPG urges authorities to reconsider before proceeding.

The proposed road is expected to cut through the Notified Wildlife Sanctuary at Tral, threatening local flora, fauna, and natural water cycles. While the project is being promoted as a boost for tourism and employment, the EPG stresses that Kashmir’s natural beauty is its greatest asset and must be preserved for sustainable development.

The group has called for an immediate halt to the project until a comprehensive environmental impact assessment is conducted. Additionally, the project requires Supreme Court clearance before any construction can begin.

(kashmirlife)

Infrastructure Urban

14 Jan 2026

PM Modi Engages Youth at Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the concluding session of the second edition of the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue (VBYLD) 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, marking the culmination of the four-day event on National Youth Day. The programme coincided with the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda and witnessed enthusiastic participation from young leaders across the country.Interacting with the youth, the Prime Minister said that many participants were not yet born when he first took oath as Chief Minister, and were still children when he assumed office as Prime Minister in 2014..

India’s Skilling System Shifts to Unified, Outcome-Led Framework

Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Minister of State for Education Jayant Chaudhary chaired the first General Body Meeting of the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET) at Kaushal Bhawan, New Delhi. Addressing the meeting, the Minister said that India’s skilling ecosystem is undergoing a paradigm shift from fragmented systems to a unified, outcome-oriented framework aligned with education, industry and future technologies, with NCVET playing a central role in making the transition credible, transparent and learn..

25th All India Major Port Cultural Meet Concludes at Paradip

The 25th All India Major Port Cultural Meet 2025–26 concluded on a grand note on January 11 at Jayadev Sadan, Paradip Port, after four days of vibrant cultural performances and artistic celebrations. The event was organised by the Paradip Port Authority (PPA) in association with the Major Ports Sports Control Board and brought together cultural talent from major ports across the country.The valedictory ceremony was graced by P L Haranadh, Chairman, Paradip Port Authority, as the Chief Guest. Addressing the gathering, Shri Haranadh congratulated all participating artistes for their captivatin..