Ajay Sharma
Sunderbani, June 27
Despite spending crores on PMGSY road infrastructure, key routes remained untouched for public transport.
According to reports, residents of Barnada, in particular Wards 5 and 6, Nahoti, and Pajwali villages have raised concerns over the lack of public transport on roads constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) years ago.
“The roads, connecting multiple panchayats including Nala and touching key routes like Langar, Patta Dalla, and Margala in Sunderbani, were built at the cost of crores to boost rural connectivity and public welfare,” said sources, adding that despite the significant investment, no public vehicles ply on these roads, leaving villagers stranded and frustrated.
The roads, intended to link remote areas and improve access to markets, healthcare, and education, have failed to deliver on their promise.
“We were hopeful when the PMGSY roads were built, but without buses or public transport, they are of little use,” said a resident of Barnada Ward 6, speaking to this reporter.
Another villager from Nahoti added, “We face daily struggles to travel for work, medical emergencies, or even basic needs like shopping. The government spent so much, but where is the benefit?”
Local residents have repeatedly raised the issue with the Assistant Regional Transport Officer (ARTO) in Rajouri, submitting resolutions demanding action.
Sources report that an ARTO visited the area after complaints, acknowledging the significant funds spent on the roads.
However, the officer was transferred shortly after, and no progress followed.
The new ARTO has been reportedly unresponsive, with villagers claiming multiple attempts to contact him have been unsuccessful.
“These officers are meant for public welfare, but they are never available when we need them,” locals remarked.
Villagers alleged that the transport department has failed to ensure public transport services despite the infrastructure being in place. “The roads are there, but no buses or shared vehicles operate. What was the point of spending crores?” questioned a local.
Sources suggested that the Commissioner of Transport must intervene to address the issue.
They have called for a dedicated team to investigate why public vehicles are not operating on these PMGSY roads and to hold accountable those responsible for the oversight.
Residents are urging immediate action to restore the intended purpose of these roads.
“We want the government to listen and act. These roads were built for us, but without vehicles, they’re just empty promises,” said a villager.
