Defence Minister sanctions key projects
Jammu, August 24: Due to inclement weather, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh could not travel to Paddar to personally visit cloudburst-hit Chasoti. Instead, he reviewed the situation through video conferencing from Raj Bhawan, Jammu, where he was joined by MoS PMO Dr. Jitendra Singh and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.
Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma, who has been camping at the site for over a week to supervise relief operations, briefed the Defence Minister on the extent of loss to life, property, agriculture, horticulture, and livestock. He also highlighted the contribution of voluntary organizations including RSS, Sewa Bharti, and local NGOs working alongside the administration in relief efforts.
Sharma underscored the religious and cultural significance of the Machail Yatra, stressing that the existing PMGSY road is inadequate to handle the expected five lakh pilgrims this year. He demanded widening of the road, installation of crash barriers, and its takeover by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO). Among other key demands, Sharma sought: Immediate construction of a motorable Bailey Bridge at Chashoti to restore connectivity, establishment of an Army Goodwill School at Padder, sanctioning of a petrol pump in the area to overcome hurdles faced during rescue operations, installation of mobile towers in no-network zones, expedited financial support from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF), and
A comprehensive rehabilitation package for farmers, horticulturists, livestock owners, and local businesses.
After hearing the detailed ground report, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh approved several key measures on the spot, including the construction of the Bailey Bridge at Chashoti, steps to improve mobile connectivity, establishment of an Army Goodwill School, and sanctioning of a petrol pump in Padder.
Singh directed that there should be “no compromise in relief measures” and assured that every affected family will receive full government support. He emphasized that the Centre stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the people of Padder not only in immediate relief but also in long-term infrastructure development and disaster preparedness.
Expressing gratitude, Sunil Sharma thanked the Defence Minister for his swift approvals and compassionate approach. He said strengthening the Machail Yatra infrastructure and ensuring overall development of Padder will provide security, livelihood, and dignity to the people of the region.
