Rana Sodhi raises border farmers’ issues, demands tourism boost for Ferozepur
HARISH MONGA
Ferozepur, November 6, 2024: BJP National Executive Member Dr. Rana Gurmeet Singh Sodhi recently presented pressing issues of Ferozepur’s farmers to Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria. Highlighting the challenges faced by border farmers, Sodhi noted that thousands of farmers in Ferozepur have land across the India-Pakistan border, which severely restricts their access to their property for farming due to security concerns.
He urged the Governor to personally intervene with the central government to secure farmers' rights over these lands, allowing them to cultivate without obstacles.
Sodhi also pointed out the lack of governmental action in rebuilding roads and bridges damaged during recent floods, calling for immediate repairs to ease rural mobility. Addressing the plight of over 60,000 residents in the Ferozepur Cantonment, he criticized the outdated British-era GGO 1836 laws, which still govern the area, preventing residents from owning property or registering land titles. He advocated for the dissolution of the cantonment area, proposing its integration into civil jurisdiction to end these colonial restrictions.
Another significant issue Sodhi raised was the expansion of the Ferozepur-Fazilka road to a four-lane highway. He stressed that the narrow road currently experiences frequent accidents due to heavy traffic from neighboring states such as Gujarat, Haryana, and Rajasthan. A four-lane upgrade, he argued, would enhance safety and ease of travel for commuters.
Lastly, Sodhi emphasized Ferozepur's rich historical heritage, including landmarks like the Bhagat Singh Memorial, Anglo-Sikh War sites, Ferozepur Fort, and Saragarhi Memorial. He urged the Governor to promote Harike, a key site attracting thousands of migratory birds annually, as a major tourism destination. According to Sodhi, developing Harike as an international tourist attraction could significantly boost local tourism and economy.