DH NEWS SERVICE
Poonch, Oct 23
In a remarkable step towards improving local infrastructure and fostering closer ties with border communities, the Indian Army inaugurated a newly constructed Passenger Waiting Shed at Upper Kalar Kattal in District Poonch. The project is a part of the Army’s ongoing civic outreach and community development initiatives, aimed at uplifting the lives of people residing in remote and challenging terrains along the Line of Control. The newly built Passenger Waiting Shed is more than just a structure; it represents the Indian Army’s enduring commitment to ensuring comfort, safety, and convenience for civilians in areas often neglected due to difficult geographical conditions. Upper Kalar Kattal, located in the hilly stretches of Poonch, frequently experiences extreme weather conditions, making travel and waiting for public transport particularly difficult for residents. The new facility will provide much-needed relief and shelter to passengers, especially during periods of heavy rain, snow, or intense heat. The inauguration ceremony was conducted with a sense of pride and community participation. It was attended by the village Sarpanch, local residents, and representatives of the Indian Army. Around 20 villagers from Upper Kalar Kattal and nearby hamlets gathered to witness the event, expressing heartfelt gratitude for the Army’s efforts to bring tangible development to their doorstep. The ceremony reflected the spirit of unity and mutual respect that has long characterised the relationship between the Army and the people of Jammu and Kashmir’s border regions.
Speaking on the occasion, Army officials highlighted that the construction of the waiting shed is part of a larger vision to enhance basic civic amenities in remote areas and strengthen civil-military relations. They emphasised that the Army, apart from safeguarding the nation’s frontiers, remains deeply invested in initiatives that contribute to the welfare of the local population. Through such people-centric projects, the Army aims to bridge developmental gaps and support communities that often face logistical and infrastructural challenges. The local Sarpanch and community members extended their sincere appreciation to the Army for its proactive involvement in improving village infrastructure. They noted that the waiting shed would significantly ease the daily struggles of villagers who depend on local transport for essential needs such as education, healthcare, and trade. By providing a safe and comfortable space to wait for transport, the structure will benefit school children, elderly residents, and workers who travel to nearby markets or government offices.
Beyond its practical utility, the Passenger Waiting Shed stands as a symbol of cooperation, resilience, and progress. It embodies the Army’s philosophy of serving the people with the same dedication with which it guards the borders. The initiative also aligns with the Army’s broader Operation Sadbhavana efforts, which focus on promoting goodwill, trust, and sustainable development in border and remote areas through education, healthcare, and infrastructure projects.
The Indian Army’s initiatives in districts like Poonch continue to build strong foundations of peace and stability. By addressing basic civic needs and ensuring that communities feel supported and connected, the Army reinforces the message that security and development go hand in hand. The completion of the Passenger Waiting Shed at Upper Kalar Kattal is a small yet significant step in this ongoing journey of partnership and progress.
As the residents of Upper Kalar Kattal expressed their appreciation, the event concluded on a note of optimism and gratitude. The new facility will not only serve as a practical asset but will also remain a lasting reminder of the Indian Army’s unwavering commitment to the welfare and development of the people it protects. Through such endeavours, the Army continues to win hearts and strengthen the bond of trust with the communities of Jammu and Kashmir, one project at a time.
