As a part of the growing railway network and other infra-structural activities in Kashmir , extension of railway line from Kakapora, Pulwama, to Shopian is under way. The project has evoked mixed reactions among the people who are likely to get affected on its completion. These reactions border on extremes. For some the rail line will bring prosperity to the area as it will facilitate economical, faster and round the year transportation of passengers and the goods – to and fro Kashmir. They say it will be big boost for the horticulture industry which is the mainstay of the local economy, as it will help speedy and cost effective transportation of apple fruit to the markets across country. Many see it the other way round: they feel railway extension will mean an economic and ecological disaster for the area as layout of the track will result in cutting down of lacs of fruit bearing and other kinds of trees . On the face of it, both arguments seem to carry merit.

It is true that today’s available mode of transport is proving inadequate to the ever-growing needs of passenger and goods movement. It is equally........

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