Handwara: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Thursday conducted an extensive tour of Handwara in Kupwara district to review developmental works, assess public facilities and hold public outreach programmes at multiple locations.
The deputy chief minister was accompanied by Member of Parliament Chowdhury Mohammad Ramzan and MLA Uri Sajjad Shafi.
During the visit, Surinder Choudhary inaugurated the 110-metre-long Drugmulla-Hatmulla bridge over Nallah Apurpur.
Speaking on the occasion, he said the long-awaited bridge project would significantly improve connectivity, mobility and transportation facilities for the people of Drugmulla and adjoining areas.
“This bridge, which remained pending for a long time, will enhance access to essential services and create better opportunities for local residents,” he said.
The deputy chief minister later visited the bus stand and main market in Handwara and addressed gatherings of transporters and trader associations.
He assured them that the government is committed to addressing genuine issues of transporters and traders on priority.
Surinder Choudhary said several long-pending developmental works in Handwara are being completed on a fast-track basis and informed that work on multiple road and bridge projects, including five PMGSY roads, would commence soon.
He also directed authorities to identify suitable land for construction of a Labour Sarai facility in Handwara for the convenience of workers and commuters.
During the day-long tour, the deputy chief minister also held public outreach programmes at Rajwar in Bungus and other locations where he interacted with public delegations and reiterated the government’s commitment towards improved public services and responsive governance.
Addressing a gathering at Rajwar Bungus, he said the area possesses immense tourism potential and assured continued focus on infrastructure development and welfare initiatives for local residents.
The deputy chief minister also visited Government Medical College Handwara to assess healthcare facilities and reviewed the availability of infrastructure, medical equipment and other essential services.
He stressed the need for strengthening healthcare services and ensuring quality patient care.
During the visit, MP Chowdhury Mohammad Ramzan and MLA Sajjad Shafi also addressed public gatherings.
Earlier, Surinder Choudhary visited the residence of MP Sheikh Abdul Rashid and MLA Sheikh Khurshied at Mawar Langate to offer condolences on the demise of their father.
Later, the deputy chief minister inspected the ongoing construction work of the Rs 12.5 crore Bakhiaker Bridge project in Handwara and directed officials to complete the project within the next three months.
Senior officers from PMGSY, R&B, Mining, Labour and Employment departments and district administration accompanied the deputy chief minister during the tour.
