KISHTWAR: Leader of Opposition in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly Sunil Kumar Sharma on Thursday laid the foundation stone for the Rs 4.42 crore Dev Sathan Riverfront development project at Bhandarkoot in Kishtwar district.
Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar Pankaj Kumar Sharma was also present at the foundation-laying ceremony.
The project, being executed by the Public Works Department (PWD), Roads and Buildings, under the Local Area Development Programme (LADP) of the Kwar Hydroelectric Power Project, is scheduled for completion within two years.
The proposed development will include viewpoints, parking facilities and seating arrangements with a capacity to accommodate around 250 people at a time.
The project is aimed at improving facilities for devotees and visitors while enhancing the religious, cultural and tourism significance of Bhandarkoot. It will also involve beautification of the riverfront and is expected to support local tourism.
During the event, Sharma highlighted the importance of the project for Kishtwar and assured support for the district’s development.
The Deputy Commissioner directed the executing agency to maintain construction quality and adhere to the completion timeline. He also called for the construction of a protective wall and other necessary safety measures in view of the project’s proximity to the Chenab River.
Executive Engineer PWD (R&B) Shamis Din and other officials were present.
