Mohsin Peerzada's

Between Celebration and Cost Escalation “Amid the joy of revival and the belief that it is better late than never, escalating costs stand as a reminder that delay carries a price.” Peerzada Mohsin Shafi After a prolonged and uncertain journey spanning several years, the recent approval by the Union Government for the construction of the Singhpora–Vailoo and Sudhmahadev–Dranga twin tube tunnels has rekindled hope across Jammu and Kashmir. Nearly four years ago, detailed project reports were prepared. Four years later, bids were invited. About two years ago, tenders were annulled. This was followed by over a year of rumours suggesting that the projects had been abandoned altogether. In this backdrop, the latest approval has brought relief to stakeholders and revived confidence that these long-awaited projects will finally take shape, with tenders expected to be floated soon. These tunnels go far beyond being mere engineering works. At present, NH-44 remains the primary corridor...

  Confronting Infrastructure Realities in J&K "However, experience, both nationally and locally, shows that administrative restructuring has produced mixed results. In some regions, new districts have improved accessibility and triggered infrastructure development" Peerzada Mohsin Shafi In mountainous regions, development does not unfold through declarations. It advances through sustained effort, careful planning and constant adaptation. Roads demand regular restoration after weather damage. Bridges must be engineered for harsh and shifting conditions. Public services extend with difficulty, often tested by distance and terrain. It is within this context that the proposal to create new hill districts and additional administrative divisions in Jammu and Kashmir needs to be viewed, not as a routine administrative step, but as a serious question of whether governance structures can realistically influence infrastructure outcomes in such a challenging landscape. Recent develo...