Budgam: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Budgam Athar Aamir Khan on Wednesday chaired separate review meetings to assess the progress of the PM Surya Ghar–Muft Bijli Yojana and the 4G Saturation Project in the district, emphasising speedy implementation and improved outreach to ensure maximum public benefit.
While reviewing the progress under the PM Surya Ghar–Muft Bijli Yojana, the DC took a comprehensive assessment of the installation of rooftop solar systems across all electrical sub-divisions of Budgam.
Highlighting the benefits of the initiative, Khan urged officials of the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) to intensify awareness campaigns about the financial and environmental advantages of installing rooftop solar plants.
He stressed the need for mass outreach programmes to educate residents about the scheme and directed the officials to ensure its speedy implementation so that households can fully benefit from the initiative.
In another meeting, the DC reviewed the implementation and progress of the 4G Saturation Project aimed at strengthening digital connectivity across the district.
During the meeting, he assessed the status of land transfer and site identification for the installation of 4G towers. Officials informed that land has been transferred at 23 locations in Budgam for the installation of towers under the project.
The DC stressed the need to expedite the remaining procedures to ensure timely installation and operationalisation of the towers.
Discussions were also held regarding the identification of additional sites in shadow areas under General Purpose and Special Purpose categories to ensure seamless mobile connectivity for residents and tourists, particularly in uncovered destinations.
Khan emphasised that strengthening digital infrastructure would significantly improve access to online services, education, healthcare and tourism-related activities in the district. He directed officers to identify remaining connectivity gaps and ensure effective coordination with telecom service providers so that the benefits of the 4G Saturation Project reach remote and underserved areas.
