SRINAGAR: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Wednesday urged officials to prioritise the timely completion of vital road infrastructure projects in Jammu and Kashmir while emphasising need-based, area-specific development and a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption.
During a review meeting at the Civil Secretariat, the Deputy CM called for rigorous oversight of infrastructure projects to ensure transparency and adherence to high-quality standards. He directed that the projects be completed within the set timelines to avoid cost escalations and delays.
The meeting was attended by Secretary of the Roads & Buildings (R&B) Department, Bupinder Kumar, along with senior officials, including the Director of Finance, Director of Planning, Chief Engineers from various engineering wings, and representatives from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation (NHIDCL), and Project Beacon.
Choudhary highlighted the importance of tailoring development to the specific needs of different regions, ensuring that the government’s initiatives for enhancing connectivity are effectively implemented. He urged officials to engage with local communities for feedback, ensuring that projects benefit people at the grassroots level.
The Deputy CM reiterated that the quality of works should never be compromised. He warned that strict action would be taken against any officer or contractor found using substandard materials or violating laid-down norms.
Among the major projects reviewed were the Semi Ring Roads in Jammu and Srinagar, the Ramban-Banihal section, the Delhi-Katra Expressway, Jammu-Akhnoor Road, and other critical routes including Srinagar-Uri, Baramulla-Tangdar, and Qazigund-Banihal.
Choudhary also stressed the need for the proper maintenance of vital roads, including the Mughal Road and National Highway, to ensure the smooth flow of traffic. He directed officers to focus on maintaining these key routes for public convenience.
The Deputy CM concluded by urging full utilisation of allocated funds for road and infrastructure projects, calling it essential for the holistic development of Jammu and Kashmir and the provision of better connectivity to the region’s residents.
