MENDHAR: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, today laid the foundation stone for the construction of approach roads to the downstream bridge over the Mendhari Nallah.
The vital infrastructure project, sanctioned at a cost of ₹339.20 lakhs, will be executed by the Roads & Buildings (R&B) Department.
During the foundation-laying ceremony, Rana directed the Executive Engineer of the R&B department to ensure the project is completed within the stipulated timeline.
He stressed the importance of adhering to high-quality standards and technical specifications, emphasizing that durable road infrastructure is essential for long-term public convenience and regional development.
Reaffirming Omar Abdullah Government’s commitment to enhancing road connectivity in remote and underserved areas, Rana noted that improved infrastructure is a key driver of socio-economic growth and accessibility in rural areas
Later, the Minister chaired a comprehensive review meeting to assess the overall developmental scenario in Mendhar Constituency.
Highlighting the crucial role of horticulture and agriculture in bolstering the rural economy, Rana called for increased outreach and awareness among farmers and the general public regarding various government schemes and welfare initiatives.
He directed the concerned departments to organise awareness camps, workshops and field demonstrations at the village level to ensure that information reaches the grassroots, enabling maximum public participation and benefit.
The Minister also held a detailed review of ongoing and proposed works under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) and the Public Works Department (PWD).
He instructed officials to expedite the tendering process, monitor progress rigorously, and ensure the timely completion of all infrastructure projects.
He also reviewed the status of road restoration efforts following recent landslides and directed the timely preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for new road projects under various schemes.
In the education sector, Rana called for swift implementation of developmental initiatives aimed at improving educational infrastructure, teaching standards and learning outcomes.
He emphasized the need for optimal utilization of existing human resources and integration of digital learning tools to enhance the quality of education, particularly in rural schools.
Addressing the healthcare situation, the Minister highlighted the importance of improving healthcare access and service delivery in underserved areas.
He directed health officials to undertake outreach programs to enhance community awareness and ensure equitable access to primary healthcare services.
The Minister underscored the importance of interdepartmental coordination, proactive governance and transparency in the execution of development works.
“The Government is committed to ensuring inclusive and holistic development that reaches every section of society, especially those in far-flung and rural areas,” Rana stated.
The meeting was attended by senior officers from Agriculture, Horticulture, Education, Health, Rural Development, PWD and PMGSY departments, along with field-level officers and representatives from various line departments.
