JAMMU: Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Youth Services and Sports, Science and Technology, and ARI and Trainings, Satish Sharma, on Saturday laid foundation stones for development projects worth more than ₹7 crore during a tour of the Chhamb Assembly constituency.
The projects, with a combined estimated cost of about ₹7.03 crore, include drainage infrastructure, civic amenities, connectivity works and improvements to community and religious facilities.
At Khour town, the minister laid the foundation stone for construction of storm-water drains in various wards at an estimated cost of ₹4.50 crore. The project is aimed at addressing waterlogging and improving drainage infrastructure in the area.
He also launched a ₹99.06 lakh project for construction of lanes and drains in all wards of the Municipal Committee Khour to improve sanitation, local connectivity and civic amenities.
At Rakh Malal, Sharma laid the foundation stone for a multipurpose hall and reading room facility estimated to cost ₹19.43 lakh. He also launched a ₹5 lakh project for construction of a tin shed at Baba Badbachaig Dev Sathan to improve facilities for devotees and visitors.
In Nikkia village of Khour tehsil, the minister laid the foundation stone for the upgradation of a religious site at an estimated cost of ₹60 lakh. The project includes augmentation of an existing shed, development of public amenities, construction of a ramp and washroom for persons with disabilities, tile work and allied infrastructure.
Another major project launched during the tour was a 16-metre vented crossway connecting Romali and Thun Naryani, estimated to cost ₹70 lakh. The project is expected to improve connectivity and facilitate movement between the two areas.
During the visit, Sharma reviewed ongoing development works, interacted with residents and heard public grievances. He assured people that genuine issues raised by them would be taken up with the concerned departments for necessary action.
The minister directed executing agencies to ensure timely completion of projects, maintain quality standards and closely monitor ongoing works. He said strengthening civic infrastructure, connectivity and public amenities remained among the government’s development priorities.
