Srinagar : Former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda made a notable return to the Kashmir Valley on Wednesday, revisiting the Uri hydroelectric project he inaugurated during his tenure. This marks his first visit to the region in 28 years.
Deve Gowda’s journey began in Srinagar, from where he travelled by train to Baramulla—a rail route he had approved while in office. From Baramulla, he proceeded to the Uri hydroelectric plant, a 480-megawatt project that was inaugurated under his leadership on February 13, 1997.
During his visit to the plant, Deve Gowda reflected on the project’s challenging completion and the significant changes in the region over the decades. He shared memories of his previous visits and expressed joy at seeing the plant’s continued operation. The former Prime Minister also took time to appreciate the natural beauty of the area and posed for photos in front of the inauguration plaque.
In discussing the train journey from Srinagar to Baramulla, Deve Gowda expressed satisfaction with the rail project he had championed as a national initiative. Recalling the isolation Kashmir faced due to militant activities in the mid-1990s, he emphasized the importance of the railway line in reconnecting the region.
Railway officials greeted Deve Gowda warmly and provided updates on the line’s benefits. His train departed Srinagar at 11:30 AM and reached Baramulla by 12:30 PM.
Deve Gowda also reminisced about his tenure when he authorized a ₹200 crore loan waiver for Kashmiri farmers, forgiving ₹50,000 per farmer. He recalled meeting with farmers and understanding their difficulties, which led to this financial relief.
Tomorrow, Deve Gowda is scheduled to visit Dal Lake and the Shankaracharya Temple in Srinagar, further deepening his engagement with the region he once served.
