Handwara, July 2: Industrial unit holders at the Chotipora Industrial Estate in Handwara on Thursday staged a protest against the Jammu and Kashmir Small Scale Industries Development Corporation (SICOP), alleging failure to provide basic facilities despite charging maintenance fees.
The protesting entrepreneurs said they have been facing severe difficulties due to the absence of essential infrastructure, including a reliable drinking water supply and a proper drainage system. They alleged that although maintenance charges are collected regularly, basic amenities remain unavailable.
President of the Industrial Estate Association, Ghulam Nabi Shah, said the issue of drinking water scarcity has repeatedly been brought to the notice of the concerned authorities over a long period, but no concrete action has been taken.
"We have been raising the issue with the authorities for a very long time, but there has been no assurance or solution. We were left with no option but to protest," he said.
Responding to the concerns, SICOP official Mubashir Ahmad said the water supply issue is linked to the Public Health Engineering (PHE) Department and is expected to be resolved once the required process is completed.
"We have written to the department twice, but have not received any response. If they inform us that a water connection cannot be provided, we will approach higher authorities for permission to install a borewell," he said.
The protesters claimed that businesses operating from the industrial estate contribute significantly to the economy and generate substantial revenue, yet basic facilities remain neglected.
"We are running businesses worth crores and paying taxes, but we are still deprived of essential services. Many units require round water supply to function efficiently. We established these units by taking huge loans and with the aim of providing employment opportunities to local youth. If the situation continues, many units may face closure," one of the protesters said.
Another entrepreneur, Basharat Ahmad, accused SICOP of ignoring their grievances and delaying action.
He alleged that large sums of money were spent on the construction of a water tank and installation of high mast lights, but neither facility is functioning properly.
"The water tank is not operational and the high mast lights stopped working within a few months of installation," he said.
The protesters urged Lieutenant Governor and Chief Minister to intervene and ensure the provision of basic facilities at the industrial estate.