Karnah, Feb 10 (JKNS): MLA Karnah Javid Ahmed Marchal on the floor of the Legislative Assembly hailed the approval of the Sadhna Tunnel, calling it a landmark decision that will change the destiny of the remote border region of Karnah. He thanked the Omar Abdullah–led government and the central leadership, particularly Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for approving the long-awaited project.
Marchal said that recurring heavy snowfall and prolonged closure of the Sadhna Pass severely disrupt transportation, healthcare, education, and access to essential supplies. The Sadhna Tunnel, he said, will provide a permanent solution to these challenges by ensuring all-weather connectivity between Karnah and the Kashmir Valley, while also accelerating regional development and economic growth.
Welcoming the grant of Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to the Pahari community, Marchal described it as a historic and constitutional right of a long-neglected section of society. He acknowledged that support was extended by leaders across different phases in facilitating the ST recognition process.
Speaking to the media in Jammu, the MLA said that several basic issues in Karnah are being addressed on a priority basis. He underlined that being a border area, the Indian Army has always stood with the local population in times of crisis. He appreciated the recent rescue operations in Jabdi Karnah, praising the timely coordination between the Army and the civil administration.
Marchal also lauded the administration for delivering effective services despite limited resources, saying the government remains committed to public welfare.
Responding to a question on Sajjad Gani Lone, Marchal said that during his tenure as a minister, Lone had supported the process of granting ST status to the Pahari community and deserved acknowledgment for it. However, he termed the continued criticism of the reservation decision as unfortunate, stating that opposing a move which grants a deprived community its constitutional rights reflects a disconnect from ground realities. (JKNS)
