Dilapidated roads, un-electrified villages betray govt claims The claims of the coalition government to provide a responsive, efficient and people-friendly administration and its commitment to provide the citizens all basic amenities stare in disdain, when the reports of dilapidated roads in different parts of the state and villages without electricity find place in the media at regular intervals. This is startling to note that 110 villages in Kupwara have yet to be electrified. Biggest paradox is that among them, many villages fall within the radius of 30 kms from Kupwara district headquarter, while other such villages are located in border areas of Machil, Keran and Tangdhar. As per the report, given the persistent apathy on the part of successive governments, about 600 families in Manigah area besides the villages viz., Sonawali, Sona Pati, Shahli Bhatta, Brembal, Chatwal, Haji Nakah, Tahana Pati and Sangpir have been groping in the dark for decades now. Despicable apathy of the administration towards these villagers can be gauged with the fact that around two years ago, about 450 tribal families in the area had paid Rs 750 (each family) for solar lights. But the lights have not been installed yet and thus they are left with no option but to make frequent rounds of office of DC Kupwara. Power Development Department (PDD) did install a transformer near Kanchama Panchayat Ghar but power supply to the village houses has not yet been resumed. There are some other areas in the Valley, where the transformers and wires have been gathering dust for years now as the department has not yet installed poles. The situation in far off villages in different districts of Jammu region too is not much different. Similar dismal story, the roads of various districts including those of two capital cities narrate. Even the National Highway in different parts of the state is in bad shape. Lolab-Kupwara highway is yet another example of stark difference between the words and practice of the government. To travel on this jagged highway, which witnesses tremendous flow of vehicular movement throughout the day, can be a nightmarish experience. Particularly the locals, who have to traverse these dilapidated stretches on daily basis for up and downward movement, really have to suffer a great deal on account dangerous pits. No wonder, the dilapidated condition of roads in the area, which is known for its scenic splendour, distracts a large number of tourists desirous of visiting the picturesque locales. However, the concerned departments' approach is too casual to bring any visible change on the ground or at least to substantiate the claims of the government about responsive administration - sensitive to the needs of the people.