Ganderbal, November 9: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today chaired a comprehensive review meeting at the Mini Secretariat to assess the status of various development activities, projects and schemes in Ganderbal district.
During the meeting, he stressed the need for officials to adopt a proactive approach to ensure public concerns are addressed quickly and effectively. “We have to increase our engagement with the public. After the elections, people’s expectations have increased and more and more people will visit government offices. We need to change our approach and reach out to people and address their concerns,” the chief minister said .
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary and other cabinet ministers including Sakeena Masood Itoo, Javed Ahmad Rana Rana, Javid Ahmad Dar and Satish Sharma The meeting was attended; Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani and Member of the Legislative Assembly Kangan Mehar Ali were also present.
Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary Jal Shakti Shaleen Kabra, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Additional Administrative Secretaries, Kashmir Divisional Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, senior police and civil officials, heads of departments and other concerned district officials were also present meeting.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who represents Ganderbal constituency in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, reiterated his commitment to support development efforts in the region. “As my constituency, Ganderbal will come under greater pressure – not just from me but from the voters and residents here. Being elected from this sector automatically brings with it increased responsibilities. I assure you of my full support and assistance You fulfill these responsibilities.”
Highlighting the year-round tourism potential of Sonamarg after the opening of Z Morh tunnel, the chief minister directed the tourism department to prepare plans for skiing in this tourist destination, saying, “So far, Sonamarg is known as a summer tourist destination destination.
However, with the Z Morh Tunnel, Sonamarg is now accessible year-round. Previously, Gulmarg was our main ski destination but I believe Sonamarg has huge potential in terms of winter tourism. We should consider Sonamarg from winter tourism perspective and make a comprehensive plan. This will allow us to mark ski areas and install ski lifts. Sonamarg deserves our attention given its excellent snow conditions. “
The chief minister also warned of delays in implementation of works under capital expenditure and centrally funded schemes, stressing the need to expedite the implementation of works in all districts, including Ganderbal.
“We have not had a particularly productive year in terms of project execution due to successive elections and the entry into force of the Model Code of Conduct. To make up for lost time we have to step up. We are behind last year’s progress and funding will not be forthcoming if not promptly There is a risk of failure if used, I earnestly urge the Deputy Commissioner. and his team to expedite work on the ground. However, this drought, while troubling in many respects, provides an opportunity to complete ongoing projects before the onset of the monsoon and by the end of this financial year. It’s about minimizing the gap between approved projects and executed projects.”
The chief minister added that “timely submission of proof of utilization is crucial for the release of funds, so we want to ensure that the allocated funds are used effectively”.
Recognizing the potential of Lake Manasbal in terms of water sports, the CM said, “The water quality, depth and unique conditions of Lake Manasbal make it have huge potential for water sports. We need to explore the establishment of a infrastructure to develop water sports possibilities.”
During the meeting, Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal gave details about the district’s infrastructure, achievements and ongoing initiatives across departments. Updates on important projects including Srinagar-Leh Expressway, Z-Morh Tunnel, Zojila Tunnel and the progress of these works were provided.
The discussion covered various centrally funded schemes such as PMAY, PM KISAN and solid waste management as well as specific objectives of social, agricultural, employment sectors and the ongoing nasha-mukt movement.
Winter preparations, district capital expenditures and other plans across departments were also reviewed.
Through a detailed briefing, the Chief Minister took stock of the development prospects of the district and directed the district officials to achieve targets in terms of water supply scheme, PMAY housing scheme for poor people, social sector schemes.
The CM directed to expedite the deforestation process required to complete road projects.
The district administration has been asked to identify land for Eklavya Model School, achieve educational assistance targets, ensure completion of works in new industrial areas and allocate funds for starting industrial units to eligible applicants.
