Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, May 1: Working president of the J&K Congress Committee, Raman Bhalla today expressed shock and anguish over the tragic collapse of a portion of a bridge in the Bantalab area on outskirts of Jammu, which left several labourers trapped under debris and resulted in loss of precious lives.
Terming the incident as deeply disturbing and unacceptable, Bhalla said that such tragedies reflect serious lapses in planning, supervision, and safety compliance at work sites. He extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured, while standing in solidarity with all those affected.
Expressing concern over the timing of the incident, Bhalla questioned why labourers were engaged in hazardous work on the International Labour Day—a day dedicated to honouring the dignity, rights, and welfare of workers. He stated that instead of ensuring their safety and welfare, workers were exposed to life-threatening conditions, which raises serious questions about the enforcement of Labour laws and safety regulations.
Calling for a high-level, time-bound enquiry, Bhalla demanded that responsibility be fixed at all levels be it contractors, executing agencies, or supervising authorities. He emphasized that mere inquiries are not enough unless they lead to strict action against those found negligent. “Accountability must not end on paper. Those responsible for compromising worker safety must face legal consequences,” he asserted.
Bhalla further urged the Government to enforce compulsory safety measures, including the provision of protective gear, on-site supervision by qualified engineers, and real-time monitoring of construction activities. He also advocated for the creation of a robust emergency response mechanism at all major project sites to ensure immediate medical assistance.
Demanding justice for the victims, Bhalla called for immediate compensation to the next of kin (NoKs) of those who lost their lives, so that their families can sustain themselves with dignity.

Excelsior Correspondent
SHIMLA, May 1: The Secretary (Power), GoI, Pankaj Agarwal along with additional Secretary (Hydro and EC&ET) Diwakar Nath Misra and Member (Hydro) CEA, Milind Ganesh Gokhale today visited SJVN’s Hydro Projects in Himachal Pradesh.
During the visit, they reviewed the operation and construction activities of 1500 MW Nathpa Jhakri Hydro Power Station, 210 MW Luhri-1 Hydro Electric Project, 412 MW Rampur Hydro Power Station and 382 MW Sunni Dam Hydro Electric Project in Himachal Pradesh.
A warm welcome was extended to the dignitaries by Chairman & Managing Director of SJVN Bhupender Gupta, Director (Personnel), Ajay Kumar Sharma, Director (Finance), Parthajit De, OSD to CMD SJVN, Rajesh Kumar Chandel and Heads of Projects.
At 1500 MW Nathpa Jhakri Hydro Power Station, Pankaj Agarwal and other dignitaries toured the powerhouse and were briefed about best maintenance practices, key financial & technical parameters and performance benchmarks in energy generation achieved by the power station.
At 412 MW Rampur Hydro Power Station, they planted tree saplings to promote environmental sustainability.
At 210 MW Luhri-1 Hydro Electric Project, Pankaj Agarwal reviewed progress of ongoing construction activities at project site.
He examined the status of major project components including dam works, powerhouse and electro-mechanical installations while also taking note of site-specific challenges.
At 382 MW Sunni Dam Hydro Electric Project, Agarwal inaugurated a Double-Lane Steel Truss Bridge at Khaira across Satluj river.
He also visited dam site, underground machine hall area and tail race tunnel components of the project to review progress.
The Power Secretary appreciated the dedication and proactive efforts of SJVN team in achieving energy generation milestones and advancing under construction hydro projects.
The visit also reaffirmed commitment of Government of India to strengthen hydro sector and accelerate development of renewable energy infrastructure.

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 1: Mission Statehood Jammu Kashmir (MSJK) activists here today staged a protest demonstration under the leadership of their president, Sunil Dimple and raised slogans against the rising prices of commercial LPG cylinders and alleged black marketing of LPG cylinders.
Addressing the protesters, Dimple claimed that due to the shortage and black marketing, domestic LPG cylinders are being sold at Rs. 2000 and commercial at Rs. 4000.
The protesters along with many hoteliers, owners of restaurants, sweet shops, tea stalls and others claimed that with the rise in prices of LPG, many small businesses are on the verge of closure.
Dimple said that the increased prices of petrol and diesel have further led to the rise in prices of essential commodities which has caused miseries to the poor people of J&K.
He said that the Central Government should roll back the hiked prices of LPG, petrol and diesel otherwise there will be an agitation.
Those who were present in the protest demonstration were H.R Gupta, Karan Pardhan, Mintoo Kumar, Sanjeev Kumar, Nitin Saini and many others.

Excelsior Correspondent
CHENANI, May 1: In a vibrant celebration of culture and tradition, the historic Chapri Mela was inaugurated with great enthusiasm by MLA Balwant Singh Mankotia at Sarar Panchayat in Chenani Tehsil.
The mela, known for its rich cultural legacy and deep-rooted traditions, witnessed an overwhelming participation of locals and visitors from nearby areas. The atmosphere was filled with joy, colourful stalls, traditional music, and folk performances, reflecting true spirit of the region.
Speaking on the occasion, MLA Balwant Singh Mankotia emphasized the historical significance of Chapri Mela, stating that such events are a symbol of unity, brotherhood, and cultural pride. He appreciated the efforts of the local Panchayat and organizers for preserving this age-old tradition.
He further reiterated his commitment towards the development of Chenani constituency, assuring enhanced focus on tourism, infrastructure, and promotion of local culture.
A large number of prominent citizens besides Ex PRIs, youth, and community members attended the event, making it a grand success.

Excelsior Correspondent
UDHAMPUR, May 1: Strongly condemning recent terrorist incidents, MLA Udhampur East, Ranbir Singh Pathania declared that perpetrators of terror shall meet the toughest end.
While addressing a public grievance redressal camp at village Mottu, where people from Panchayats Panjian, Mottu, Garh Samna Banj, Ramnagar, Ganj and Badwal areas of Bani assembled in large numbers, he reaffirmed that the nation stands united in its resolve to eliminate terrorism and ensure peace, stability, and security for all.
Referring to the recent killing of three terrorists in Motu-Jofar area, the MLA asserted that all those involved in acts of terrorism will be identified and punished strictly as per law. He was all praise for professional acumen and expertise of police/paramilitary forces and making the area free from scourge of terror.
Emphasizing the unwavering commitment of the Government of India, he said that Government of India has adopted a zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism. He reiterated that under the leadership of Narendra Modi, all forms and manifestations of terrorism are being dealt with firmly and decisively.
Highlighting developmental concerns, the MLA stressed the need to upgrade educational infrastructure in the region. He announced that GHS Mottu, GPS Nagain, and other schools in the area will be strengthened with improved infrastructure and facilities and state of art sports facilities.
Addressing banking challenges, he informed that residents of this far-flung area currently travel nearly 30 km to Nagrota and Khoon for banking services. He stated that a proposal for opening a branch of Jammu & Kashmir Bank in the area has already been forwarded to ease public inconvenience.
On the issue of drinking water, he reiterated that under the Jal Jeevan Mission, every household will be provided with potable tap water supply in a time-bound manner.
Further, he announced that HS Mottu has been included under the PM SHRI scheme, and additional classrooms along with a boundary wall will be constructed to enhance educational standards. He urged the people to take full advantage of development opportunities being implemented under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Among those present on the occasion were Surinder Singh, Nisha Devi, Gani, Romesh, and several other prominent locals who actively participated in the camp and raised issues concerning their respective areas.

Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, May 1: Jammu and Kashmir Border Area Development Conference (BADC) has demanded transparency and accountability in the functioning of the J&K Pahari Speaking Board, particularly in the management of Pahari hostels for students across the Union Territory.
In a statement, BADC Chairman Dr Shazad Ahmed Malik said the Board was established for the welfare of students from the Pahari-speaking community, but its functioning lacks public accountability.
He said the hostels are meant to provide accommodation to poor and deserving students from border and tribal areas, and any mismanagement directly affects their future.
Dr Malik said many students come from humble backgrounds and their families make sacrifices to send them for studies, adding that they deserve proper food, clean accommodation and basic facilities.
He sought disclosure of details regarding funds received and spent by the Board, present condition of hostels, number of students availing the facilities and the admission process being followed.
He also demanded that information about food quality, quantity and expenditure in hostels should be placed in the public domain.
Dr Malik urged the Lieutenant Governor’s administration and the Social Welfare Department to examine the functioning of the Board and ensure that benefits reach genuine and deserving students.