SRINAGAR, Sept 22: PDP MLA Waheed Para on Tuesday raised concerns in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly over security-related restrictions on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, urging the government to take up the matter with security agencies, the Unified Command and the Centre.
Speaking during Zero Hour, Para said frequent stoppages of civilian traffic during security convoy movements, the Amarnath Yatra and the tourist season were causing difficulties for local residents.
Para said security arrangements were necessary but argued that civilian movement should not face unnecessary disruption. He described the frequent stoppages as a source of hardship and called for measures that ensure both security and the convenience of local commuters.
He said residents in South Kashmir often have to wait for extended periods when convoys or other protected movements pass through the highway.
Para urged the elected government to raise the matter with the Government of India, security forces and the Unified Command, and seek a review of the existing arrangements.
Supporting the issue, National Conference MLA Abdul Majeed Larmi called for the Assembly to pass a recommendation or resolution urging the Centre to review the restrictions.
Larmi acknowledged that security arrangements fall under the jurisdiction of the Union Government and security agencies, but said the Assembly could convey the concerns of residents through a formal recommendation.
He said people face difficulties when vehicles are stopped at multiple points along the highway and urged that special consideration be given to patients, children and people facing emergencies.
Both legislators maintained that while security personnel must be allowed to perform their duties, measures should also be considered to minimise inconvenience to civilians using the highway.
