Beyond Credit: United for the Sumbal–Bandipora–Gurez National Highway

Malik Nazir

“Every memorandum submitted, every letter written, every discussion held, every report published, every journey undertaken, and even every social media post shared played a vital role in keeping this long-pending demand alive.”

The recent approval for the preparation of a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the proposed Sumbal–Bandipora–Gurez Highway has brought a wave of hope and optimism across Bandipora district and beyond. For a region that has long aspired for better connectivity and enhanced infrastructure, this development is undoubtedly a significant milestone. While it is only the beginning of a long journey, it is nevertheless a moment worthy of appreciation and collective celebration.

It is important to recognize that such developments do not occur overnight. The demand for this vital highway has been sustained for years through the persistent efforts of many stakeholders. The people of

Bandipora, political leaders,  the administration, civil society members, traders Federation, media organizations, social media influencers, and countless concerned citizens have all played their respective roles in keeping this issue alive.

Every memorandum submitted, every letter written, every discussion held, every report published, every journey undertaken from the district to the nation’s capital, and even every social media post shared played a vital role in sustaining momentum and keeping this long-pending demand firmly in the public discourse. Each effort, whether big or small, contributed to ensuring that the vision of improved connectivity for the region remained alive and continued to receive the attention it deserved.

In recent days, discussions surrounding the project have generated considerable

enthusiasm. However, alongside the celebrations, debates have emerged over who deserves credit for this achievement. While such discussions are understandable, it is perhaps more important at this stage to focus on the larger objective rather than the credit game.

Infrastructure projects of this magnitude  materialize through a combination of public aspirations,  political support, administrative processes, and sustained advocacy. Therefore, it would be fair to view the initiation of the DPR process as a collective accomplishment,a reflection of the united will of the people and all those who worked, directly or indirectly, toward this goal.

At the same time, it must be remembered that the DPR approval is only the first step. The road from proposal to execution involves several stages, including technical assessments,

financial approvals, administrative clearances, and eventual construction. The true success of this initiative will be measured not by announcements alone but by the completion of the highway and its ability to serve generations of people across Bandipora and Gurez.

This is therefore a moment not for division but for unity. Instead of engaging in unnecessary blame games or disputes over credit, all stakeholders should continue to work together with patience, positivity, and determination. Constructive engagement and sustained public interest will remain essential in ensuring that the project progresses smoothly through the various stages ahead.

The people of this region have always been known for their culture of mutual respect, civility, and grace. As inhabitants of a land associated

with the values of Alim, Adab, and Aab, it is incumbent upon all of us to uphold these traditions in our public discourse. Respectful dialogue, appreciation for every contribution, and a shared commitment to the common good will strengthen our collective cause far more than disagreements over individual recognition.

Let us therefore celebrate this development as a collective victory and continue to pray and strive for its final approval and timely execution. The dream of improved connectivity is not the dream of any one individual or group; it is the dream of an entire district. When the highway eventually becomes a reality, it will benefit every resident, every traveler, every business, and every future generation.

As we move forward, we remain hopeful that this proposed Sumbal–Bandipora–Gurez

National Highway will receive final approval under the visionary infrastructure agenda of Hon’ble Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari. The realization of this vital project would not only strengthen regional connectivity but also unlock immense economic, tourism, educational, and strategic potential for Bandipora and Gurez. With collective efforts, sustained public support, and positive engagement from all stakeholders, we can look forward to the day when this long-cherished dream becomes a reality.

Once the DPR is approved and the project is successfully accomplished, it will hardly matter who inaugurates it or which government is administering the country or the UT at that time. What will endure is the contribution made towards the welfare and progress of the people. History remembers meaningful achievements, many of which are made through sincere

commitment and collective effort. Ultimately, the true measure of success lies in the lasting impact such a project leaves on generations to come.

Until then, let us remain united in hope, constructive in our approach, and steadfast in our support for a project that promises to transform the future of Bandipora district. The destination is still ahead, but the journey has begun and that, in itself, is a reason for optimism.

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The writer is a resident of  Bandipora. Feedback and correspondence may be sent to maliknazir.a@gmail.com.