Pulwama marriage hall transformed after The Kashmir Pulse’s coverage

PULWAMA — A marriage hall in Bellow village of Pulwama district, left unused since its construction in 2005 due to administrative neglect, has seen a transformative cleanup effort following the intervention prompted by the coverage on our news portal The Kashmir Pulse.

The neglected state of the marriage hall, originally built after the village’s recognition as a model village, drew attention after residents expressed frustration over its disuse and deteriorating condition. Mushtaq Ahmad Mir, a local resident, voiced disappointment over the building’s state, citing administrative inaction despite repeated pleas for assistance.

The absence of a protective wall on the hall’s backside had allowed it to become a dumping ground for garbage, exacerbating its decline. Elderly villagers echoed sentiments of despair over the structure’s neglect, highlighting the urgent need for action.

In response to the heightened attention, the local administration, particularly District Commissioner Pulwama Dr Basharat Qayoom, directed Block Development Officer Tawqeer Ahmad to take immediate action within 24 hours. The Block Development Officer promptly initiated a cleanup operation, utilizing machinery to remove garbage from the premises.

Locals praised The Kashmir Pulse for highlighting their grievance, which spurred the administration into action. Additionally, they commended the efforts of village-level worker Jahangir Ahmad, who reportedly spent personal funds to facilitate the cleanup.

Residents expressed gratitude towards the Deputy Commissioner, Block Development Officer, and village-level worker for their swift response, urging authorities to expedite the hall’s usage to prevent further deterioration and misuse by anti-social elements.

Shabir Ahmad Mir, a resident, suggested repurposing the structure into a Public Health Centre to enhance healthcare services in the area, signalling potential future developments for the facility.