JAMMU: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary today convened a meeting to review progress on the ongoing road and bridge development projects in the Padder–Nagseni constituency.
The meeting was attended by the Leader of the Opposition, Sunil Sharma.
The Deputy Chief Minister assessed the status of all ongoing road and bridge projects being executed under Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development and the Public Works Department sector.
While reviewing the works, the Deputy Chief Minister stressed the need for speedy and quality execution of all ongoing projects to ensure timely completion. “The government is committed to strengthening road infrastructure and ensuring seamless connectivity to all the habitations across the region. Any lapses and delays in execution shall be viewed seriously,” he said.
The Deputy Chief Minister directed the concerned officers to ensure that local MLAs are taken on board during the planning and execution of projects, so that development works are aligned with the local needs and priorities.
“Ensure public representatives are consulted for every work execution and plan formation for adequate and required development projection and implementation,” he said.
He also asked for installation of a Bailey bridge to facilitate hassle-free movement of pilgrims and the general public. He directed the officers to take immediate steps for placing a Bailey bridge at village Chashoti in Kishtwar which was washed away during last year’s floods, ensuring restoration of connectivity at the earliest.
“Ensure the pilgrims do not suffer and have seamless accessibility before the pilgrimage starts,” he said.
He further directed the completion of all the ongoing projects within stipulated timelines, besides taking up the projects already in the pipeline on priority to accelerate development in Padder–Nagseni constituency.
The LoP discussed the current status of various projects and raised issues of public interest with the Minister, seeking timely resolution of the same.
Among others, the meeting was attended by Chief Engineer PMGSY Jammu, Purshotam Kumar, Chief Engineer Chenab Zone K.K. Attri, Director Finance PWD, Mazhar Khan, SEs and Executive Engineers besides other concerned officers.
The meeting also included detailed discussion on various NABARD and CRF projects being implemented in the constituency.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary laid the foundation stone for the construction of a slab over the Nallah near Mecca Chowk, Bathindi (upstream side).
MLA Bahu Constituency, Vikram Randhawa, accompanied the Deputy Chief Minister during the foundation stone laying ceremony.
Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Chief Minister said that with the initiation of work on this important project, a long-pending demand of the local residents has been fulfilled.
He stressed that quality and timely execution of the project are crucial, as it will not only beautify the area but also facilitate smoother movement for the local residents. He reiterated the government’s commitment towards strengthening civic infrastructure and ensuring better public facilities across Jammu and Kashmir.
“Such initiatives significantly enhance accessibility and improve the overall living conditions of the residents,” he said.
Speaking on the occasion, MLA Vikram Randhawa appreciated the Deputy Chief Minister for initiating the project and addressing the concerns of the people.
Local residents expressed gratitude to the government for addressing their long-standing concerns and taking steps towards the development of the area.
The locals, including representatives of Bathindi Development Forum, also raised various issues with the Deputy Chief Minister.
The Deputy Chief Minister instructed the officers to put up all genuine demands with the concerned departments for early redress.
Among others present on the occasion were Chief Engineer PWD Rajesh Kumar Agastan and other officials.
