Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir (PoJK) continues to reel under the weight of decades-long infrastructural neglect and rampant corruption, with residents deprived of basic necessities including motorable roads, healthcare, and functioning schools.
Far from the reach of meaningful governance, communities in the region are forced to carry the sick on foot, navigate crumbling roads, and send children miles away for education--while the state’s development funds, they allege, are diverted through political favouritism.
Standing along the dilapidated so-called Defence Road, resident Saad Hameed Kayani voiced long-standing grievances. “Despite the PoJK government allocating a significant budget for development initiatives each year, the funds rarely reach the areas that most desperately need them,” he said.
The road, vital for nearly 30,000 residents, remains unchanged for over two decades. “Vehicles are unable to traverse it, compelling individuals to transport goods on foot, while even patients must be carried manually,” Kayani said, describing the route’s dangerous condition. He noted that the road, frequently used by trucks for trade, contributes considerable tax revenue, yet lacks safety walls, has deep potholes, and is barely maintained.
“In an emergency, vehicles could easily become trapped,” he warned.
Kayani further accused local politicians of misappropriating public funds. “Assembly members frequently direct projects to their political allies in return for allegiance, leading to inferior work and a total lack of accountability. The public remains unaware of the benefits of the money that has been allocated for them,” he added.
The alleged neglect stretches beyond transport infrastructure. The region remains without a functioning District Health Unit, leaving thousands to travel long distances for basic medical assistance. “This deficiency in health infrastructure consistently endangers patients' lives,” Kayani said.
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Education fares no better. He pointed out that several schools have remained unfinished for years, and even those that were completed are “deteriorating, lacking essential furniture, teaching materials, and a sufficient number of teachers.”
With no viable local schooling options, children must travel to far-off cities. “They trek long distances on damaged, dusty roads, often bearing heavy school bags that adversely affect their health,” he added.
The elderly and infirm are among the worst affected, particularly in emergencies when there is no reliable transport. Kayani highlighted the lack of essential amenities such as roadside drainage, forest protection, or barriers to prevent accidents. “Despite the road being labelled a ‘Defence Road’ due to its strategic importance, there are no safety measures in place,” he said.
He attributed the problem to deep-rooted political dysfunction and a flawed bureaucratic culture. “Development funds are selectively allocated to favoured political areas while leaving larger, more deserving regions completely overlooked.”
Calling for transparency and accountability, Kayani urged authorities to ensure public works meet engineering standards and deliver long-term solutions. “Contractors must adhere to appropriate engineering standards, so roads are constructed to last and public funds are not squandered.”
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