Srinagar: Outside a polling booth in Karnah town, a serpentine queue of people was seen since early morning.
As the day progressed, the flow of voters increased to exercise their franchise.
The region has been in focus for the last few years especially after the government threw it open for tourism. Voters said the development of tourism was the prime reason for them to turn in numbers towards polling booths.
“For the last few years, this area has hosted many tourists. Now, we want the area to be developed on modern lines so that domestic as well as international tourists come here. We are voting to choose a candidate who can develop this frontier area,” said Mohammad Saleem Khan, a voter.
People from these areas voiced their collective aspirations for peace, economic growth, and better connectivity.
“Roads here are in a pathetic condition. Given that people here are mostly tribals, the economic condition too is bad. So, we want the upcoming government to work on these issues so that the problems of people are solved,” said Muneer Ahmad, another voter.
In the border area of Uri, people also cast their votes in huge numbers. People of this border have endured the consequences of cross-border firing for years, with lives disrupted and livelihoods at risk.
A recurring demand among voters was the need for sustained peace in the region. “For the last two years, we have heaved a sigh of relief. We want an end to the violence. Peace is the only way forward for development to take place,” said Mufassir Ahamd Khan, a voter from Uri town.
The voters highlighted the untapped potential of the region’s scenic landscapes and rich history. “Uri can become a major tourist hub, and with the right infrastructure, it could attract visitors from all over the country. We want the area to be developed and promoted by the government in the future and transform it into a popular tourism destination,” Khan said.
