POONCH:Concerns are growing over Poonch Red Zone encroachments along the Poonch River.The issue mainly affects the Sher-e-Kashmir Bridge area and the surroundings of Poonch Fort.
Residents and experts are urging fair and uniform legal action.They say public safety and the rule of law must come first.
Poonch Red Zone encroachments :Sher-e-Kashmir Bridge Declared a Red Zone
The Sher-e-Kashmir Bridge area is officially marked as a Red Zone.
Law does not allow any construction in this zone.
However, illegal structures have appeared near the bridge.
Experts warn that these encroachments block natural water flow.
As a result, flood risks increase during heavy rainfall.
People living nearby feel unsafe.
Local residents now demand immediate removal of all illegal encroachments.
They believe quick action can prevent future disasters.
Concerns Around Historic Poonch Fort
Meanwhile, attention has also shifted to the area around Poonch Fort.
The fort holds historical and cultural importance.
According to informed sources, court orders exist to remove illegal structures there.
Citizens say such orders must be followed without delay.
However, observers stress one key point.Action should not stop at the fort alone.
Call for Equal Enforcement of Law
Civic groups insist on equal treatment under the law.
They say the same rules must apply everywhere.
Therefore, if action is taken near Poonch Fort, it must also cover the Red Zone.Selective enforcement weakens public trust.
Legal experts agree with this view.They say justice only works when applied equally.
Lessons from Past Floods
Poonch has already faced major floods in 2014 and 2025.
Those events caused serious damage.
Illegal constructions near rivers made the situation worse.
People still remember those losses.
Because of this, citizens now demand preventive action.
They want safety, not excuses.
Moreover, residents believe that timely action can help prevent long-term damage to the town’s infrastructure. They say clearing illegal encroachments will improve river flow and reduce pressure during heavy rains. As a result, emergency response systems can work more effectively. Citizens also feel that consistent enforcement of rules will discourage future violations. They hope such steps will strengthen public confidence in lawful governance and urban safety in Poonch.
Flood Risk and River Safety Measures in Poonch
National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) – Flood Management Guidelines
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