Anger is mounting in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan (PoGB) as residents grapple with deteriorating infrastructure, particularly the region’s dangerously poor road conditions.
The Awami Action Committee, a local activist group, has taken a stand, lambasting the occupied-Army for its failure to provide basic amenities. Their primary concern is the treacherous state of roadways, especially in the Khanbari area, where they say accidents are a daily risk.
“People carrying wheat sacks could fall into the river any moment,” warns an Awami Action Committee activist. “It’s not just inconvenience; it’s life-threatening. Yet, the local authority’s incompetence and apathy are glaring.”
The situation in Khanbari is particularly grim. A leader from the committee reports, “Transporting one wheat sack costs around 1000 PKR. The Chief Minister’s team visited, but nothing changed. Our people are suffering.”
Now, patience is wearing thin. The committee threatens a ‘Chakka Jam’ strike across Occupied-Gilgit-Baltistan if Khanbari’s road issue isn’t immediately addressed.
This crisis is just the latest in PoGB’s long history of neglect. From poor infrastructure to ignored grievances, residents have been protesting for years. Yet, the administration, a puppet of Pak Army, continues to stifle dissent rather than solve problems.