Mendhar :Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, Thursday inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for a series of road development projects in Mendhar, worth ₹3.19 crore.
The initiative marks a significant step towards strengthening the road network in such border and rural areas of Jammu and Kashmir, underscoring the government’s firm commitment to achieve last-mile connectivity.
Speaking on the occasion, the Minister described the projects as a transformative move aimed at bridging the long-standing infrastructural gaps and improving accessibility in Mendhar. He emphasized that the development of durable and sustainable road networks is central towards unlocking the socio-economic potential of underserved areas.
Among the major works inaugurated was construction of a road from Main Road NH-144A Kallar to ShadharaSharief via KamloGali, being executed under the UT Capex Budget at an estimated cost of ₹1 crore.
Additionally, the upgradation of the Ari to Sarhuti road, taken up under the MLA Constituency Development Fund, has been completed at a cost of ₹50 lakh.
The Minister also laid foundation stone for further strengthening of the Ari–Sarhuti stretch, including its macadamization under the Potholes Repair Programme at a cost of ₹30 lakh and its permanent restoration under the UT Sector with an allocation of ₹40 lakh.
Another significant project included macadamization of Main Road to Dara Top via Haji Pallu, undertaken under the C&T Scheme at an estimated cost of ₹75 lakh.
Furthermore, the upgradation of the road from Main Road to ShahstarZiyarat in Mendhar, executed under CTMV Gursai, has been completed at a cost of ₹24 lakh.
Addressing the gathering, Rana reiterated that ensuring connectivity in remote, border and underserved areas remains a top priority of the government led by Omar Abdullah. He stressed that no community should remain isolated due to inadequate road infrastructure. He described quality connectivity as a fundamental right of every citizen, irrespective of any consideration.
The Minister highlighted that the government is adopting a comprehensive and multi-pronged strategy for road development by leveraging constituency development funds, UT sector allocations and targeted repair programmes. This integrated approach, he noted, is aimed at ensuring that every village, hamlet and border settlement is connected through reliable road networks.
Underscoring the broader impact of infrastructure development, the Minister stated that improved road connectivity serves as a catalyst for economic growth and social progress.
Rana directed the Public Works (R&B) Department to ensure strict adherence to quality standards and timelines in execution of all projects. He made it clear that any compromise on construction quality would not be tolerated and called for robust monitoring and on-ground supervision at every stage.
The locals, while extending gratitude to the present dispensation for these vital projects, highlighted that better infrastructure would encourage local entrepreneurship, support trade and commerce and generate employment opportunities, ultimately contributing to improved livelihoods and sustainable development in Mendhar.
