Udhampur–Billawar Road Crisis: Pawan Khajuria Leads Massive Protest Over Deadly Potholes
UDHAMPUR,March 2, 2026 — Tensions flared at the Manwal Bus Stand on Monday as senior leader Pawan Khajuria, joined by hundreds of local residents and supporters, staged a major demonstration against the “pathetic” state of the Udhampur–Billawar Road.
Protesters blocked the vital Dhar Road artery, raising slogans against the administration and the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) for failing to maintain a stretch they describe as a “death trap.” Khajuria highlighted that the dilapidated route, specifically through the Udhampur East constituency, is riddled with massive potholes that have already claimed lives and continue to pose a daily threat to two-wheeler riders and commuters.
During the sit-in, local leaders and Sarpanches expressed deep frustration, alleging that while the local MLA travels this route daily, public grievances have been systematically ignored. In contrast, they lauded Khajuria for championing the area’s development despite his election loss.
Addressing the crowd, Khajuria warned of an intensified agitation if immediate repairs are not initiated, noting that the road is a critical lifeline for thousands.
He also revealed that Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh has intervened at the PMO level, directing the BRO to begin restoration work—a move for which Khajuria expressed his gratitude.
The protest also took aim at the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), with Khajuria alleging that multi-crore water projects exist only on paper while villagers continue to struggle for basic drinking water.
The demonstration was eventually called off after Tehsildar Majalta, Kamini Choudhary, arrived at the scene and provided a formal assurance that the road’s condition would be improved following discussions with higher authorities.
Khajuria concluded the rally by vowing to remain a persistent voice for the region’s infrastructure needs, flanked by a massive gathering of Sarpanches and social activists.