DC extensively tours Pulwama, takes stock of ongoing works at Gudoora Bridge on J&K Highway

Pulwama: The Deputy Commissioner (DC) Pulwama, Dr. Basharat Qayoom on Wednesday conducted an extensive tour of the district to take stock of developmental works besides taking first hand appraisal of issues projected by different communities of the district.
During the tour, DC inspected the ongoing construction and developmental work of Gudoora bridge coming up at an allocated cost of Rs. 17.19 Crores, executed by P.C Division-Ist (R&B).
The DC directed the concerned executing agencies to expedite the developmental works and complete the work within the stipulated time to facilitate the general public.
He inspected Government Girls & Boys Primary School Naman where he held an interaction with the students and urged the teaching staff for attaining goals enshrined under National Education Policy. He stressed on keeping the premises and surroundings of the school neat, clean and plastic free.
The DC also took stock of arrangements for upcoming Amarnath Yatra along the National Highway. He passed directions that arrangements for roadside public conveniences, drinking water facilities and ambulance services should be made along the highway falling in the jurisdiction of Pulwama
Later, DC visited Spice Park Dussu, Pampore and convened a meeting to review the initiatives taken for economic revival of J&K Saffron under National Mission on Saffron.
On the occasion, incharge Administrator, India International Kashmir Saffron Trading Centre, Pampore, Khursheed Ahmed briefed the DC about the achievements and progress achieved under the National Mission on Saffron.
The DC also inspected the various sections and installed machinery at stigma separation unit, Quality Evaluation Laboratory, Packing unit, Drying unit and cold storage room.
Speaking on the occasion, DC said that Pampore is famous for saffron cultivation and should be known as Saffron Heritage Town and the Spice Park in Dussu Pampore would be the cause in transforming the Pampore into a Saffron Agricultural Heritage Industry.
He added that Pampore and the adjoining areas have tremendous potential to export World Class Quality Saffron. He said that the revival of Saffron Industry would augment the employment opportunities in the Valley.
He also stressed upon the officers of Agriculture Development to adopt novel methods in remuneration of Saffron Crop.
Saffron Growers put forth their valuable suggestions which includes, better irrigation facilities, functioning of Borewells and enhanced market linkages for assured returns.
The DC heard them patiently and assured that all their issues will be looked into and redressed on top priority.
Among others, Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Awantipora, Zaffar Ahmed Shawl, Chief Agriculture Officer, Pulwama, Assistant Commissioner Development and Saffron Growers were present.