SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir government on Monday affirmed that no land has been acquired for the Baramulla-Kupwara railway line but confirmed that land acquisition has taken place for a road widening project in the Handwara belt.
Responding to queries by MLA Sheikh Khursheed, the government said that Rs 4.06 crore has already been disbursed as compensation. “An outstanding amount of Rs 23.23 crore is under process through the Bhoomi Rashi Portal.”
The government stated that land has been acquired for the road widening project in the Langate Assembly Constituency, specifically in the Kralgund, Langate, and Handwara Tehsils.
In Tehsil Kralgund, no land has been acquired, while in Tehsil Langate, 38 Kanal, 12 Marla, and 03 Sarsai have been acquired. Similarly, in revenue village Handwara, around 24 Kanal, 13 Marla, and 06 Sarsai, and in Braipora, 31 Kanal, 02 Marla, and 02 Sarsai have been acquired.
Regarding concerns over rate differences in compensation between Braipora and Handwara, the government explained that Handwara lies entirely within municipal limits, while Braipora lies partially in rural limits, as per existing rules.
For urban areas, compensation is multiplied by a factor of 1, whereas for rural areas, the compensation is multiplied by a factor of 2, it said.
On a query regarding the rehabilitation of affected farmers, orchardists, house owners, shopkeepers, and other stakeholders, the government responded that the entire acquisition is being carried out under the National Highways Act, 1956. Compensation for structures, land, and trees is being paid in accordance with the provisions of this Act, the response stated. (KNO)
