SRINAGAR: In a high-level review meeting held at the Mini Secretariat in Ganderbal, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah assessed the status of various development projects and schemes across the district, emphasising the need for a proactive approach among officials to meet the rising expectations of the public post-elections. He urged government officers to increase their engagement with the public, stating that greater accessibility to government offices and prompt responses to concerns are essential to address people’s needs effectively.
Chief Minister Abdullah, who represents Ganderbal constituency in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, reaffirmed his dedication to the district’s development. “Ganderbal, as my constituency, will experience increased pressure, not only from me but from the residents here. Being elected from this segment naturally adds responsibility. I assure you of my full support in fulfilling these duties,” he said.
Highlighting Sonamarg’s potential as a year-round tourist destination following the Z Morh Tunnel’s opening, Chief Minister Abdullah directed the Tourism Department to develop a comprehensive plan for skiing in Sonamarg. He suggested that Sonamarg, traditionally known as a summer destination, could rival Gulmarg as a winter sports hub, with the installation of ski lifts and designated ski areas to boost tourism.
Abdullah also addressed delays in the execution of works under CAPEX and centrally sponsored schemes, urging swift action to make up for lost time caused by recent elections and the model code of conduct. He instructed the district administration to expedite ongoing projects, cautioning that unused funds could lapse if not utilised by the end of the financial year.
In line with promoting tourism, Abdullah noted the potential of Manasbal Lake for water sports, advocating for the development of infrastructure to attract visitors. “Manasbal has tremendous potential for water sports, with its water quality, depth, and unique conditions. We should explore the possibility of establishing necessary infrastructure to make this a key attraction,” he said.
The Deputy Commissioner of Ganderbal provided an overview of the district’s infrastructure, accomplishments, and ongoing initiatives, covering projects such as the Srinagar-Leh Highway, Z-Morh Tunnel, and Zojila Tunnel. Updates on Centrally Sponsored Schemes, including PMAY and PM KISAN, were also presented, along with the progress of the district’s nasha-mukt (drug-free) campaign.
The Chief Minister directed district officials to focus on achieving targets related to water supply schemes, housing under PMAY, and social sector initiatives. He also stressed the importance of timely submission of utilisation certificates for efficient fund release, ensuring that all allocated resources are effectively deployed.
In addition, Abdullah instructed the district administration to expedite the grant of forest clearances critical for completing road projects, identify land for the establishment of an Eklavya Model School, and ensure timely completion of works in new industrial estates. The Chief Minister encouraged officials to allocate industrial plots to eligible applicants, supporting local entrepreneurship and employment.
The meeting concluded with the Chief Minister reiterating the importance of unity and diligence among officials to fulfil development goals and meet public expectations, with a call for cohesive efforts across departments for Ganderbal’s progress.
Earlier, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah eaffirmed his commitment to the welfare of Ganderbal’s residents, pledging ongoing support and prompt action on their concerns. He made this statement during a public meeting at Dak Bungalow Ganderbal, where he directly engaged with local residents to discuss their issues.
The meeting was attended by Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal Shyambir, and other senior officials, who noted the concerns raised by various delegations. Numerous groups from different parts of Ganderbal presented pressing issues to the Chief Minister, seeking his intervention for swift redressal.
A delegation from Shallabugh requested the establishment of a fire service facility, the upgrading of the local high school, the development of a playfield at Gund Roshan, the reinforcement of the nallah bank near the Jhelum at Lati Gund Roshan, the creation of a development block, additional staff at the PHC Batwina, and the upgrading of a health sub-centre.
Other delegations called for the dredging and desilting of the Duderhama Nallah, the development of a playground in Tullamulla, the construction of a community hall in Wurpash, and the relocation of the Mechanical Sub-Division from Kakasarai to Ganderbal.
Further requests included establishing a women’s college in the district, a CT scan facility at the District Hospital, filling vacant posts in various departments, setting up a cold storage facility at the upcoming Industrial Estate in Ganderbal, creating employment opportunities, and reinforcing the bank nallahs along the SE canal.
Additionally, a delegation from Block Safapora raised concerns about healthcare facilities and issues affecting stone quarry workers. Another delegation highlighted the high cost of construction materials and issues related to the illegal and rampant extraction of minor minerals in the district.
Several individuals also approached the Chief Minister with personal grievances, seeking his assistance.
In response, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who represents the Ganderbal constituency in the JK Assembly, instructed the Deputy Commissioner and senior officials to ensure that all legitimate concerns raised are addressed promptly. He assured the public that all issues would be thoroughly reviewed and resolved in a time-bound manner.
