Jammu: The High Court of J&K and Ladakh has directed the Chief Engineer, PW(R&B) Department, Poonch, to examine and decide a representation filed by residents opposing changes to a sanctioned road alignment in the district.
The petition, filed under Article 226 of the Constitution of India, sought directions to restrain authorities from altering the alignment approved under NIT No. 177 of 2021–22 dated October 13, 2021.
The project originally envisaged construction of a road commencing from Qau Morh and passing through Samyal, Gujjar, and Ferozal Mohallas of Chappala before terminating at Chandyal, as per the notified survey.
According to the petition, efforts were made by the Chairperson, BDC Balakote, to shift the take-off point to Briely near Kalaban Bridge, allegedly depriving a significant population of road connectivity.
Despite multiple representations to officials, including the Chief Engineer and Deputy Commissioner, the authorities allegedly attempted to proceed with construction along an existing road without approval or justification.
During the hearing, counsel for the petitioners submitted that they would be satisfied if the authorities were directed to consider their pending representations.
Accepting the submission, Justice Moksha Khajuria Kazmi directed the Chief Engineer , Poonch to treat the writ petition as a representation and decide it within four weeks from receipt of the order by passing a reasoned decision.
The petitioners were also directed to furnish a copy of the petition along with annexures to the concerned authority. The matter was accordingly disposed of.
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