BARAMULLA, SEPTEMBER 3: Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Department, Javid Ahmad Dar, laid the foundation stone for the Rs 18 crore construction and maintenance of the road from L075-Bomina–Harwan–Zaloora to Yamberzaewari, to be executed by PMGSY (JKRRDA), Baramulla Division.
The project is envisaged to provide improved and all-weather connectivity to the people of the area and strengthen access to essential services, markets and other economic and social opportunities.
Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that road connectivity is a critical component of rural development and inclusive growth, as it facilitates access to education, healthcare, markets and employment while strengthening linkages between rural communities and the wider economy.
He said the Government is giving focused attention to improving infrastructure in rural and far-flung areas, with the objective of ensuring that development reaches the last mile and people in remote habitations have access to basic amenities and opportunities.
“Development of roads is not an end in itself; it is a means to connect people with opportunities and improve their quality of life,” the Minister stated.
Javid Dar said that improved connectivity also provides a strong foundation for local economic activity and sustainable development.
The Minister highlighted the tourism potential of the area, stating that better road connectivity can help unlock the region’s natural and tourism resources and create avenues for local entrepreneurship and employment, particularly for the youth. He stressed the need to harness such potential through planned and sustainable development.
Reaffirming the Government’s commitment to balanced and equitable development, Javid Dar said that rural and far-flung areas would continue to receive focused attention in the development agenda. He emphasized that public infrastructure must deliver visible and meaningful benefits to communities at the grassroots level.
During the visit, the Minister also interacted with local residents and heard their concerns and demands regarding Veterinary Centre and Dispensary, adequate drinking water supply, electricity infrastructure, installation of electric poles and wires and shortage of teaching staff.
Giving assurance to the people, he said that all genuine issues would be taken up with the concerned departments and addressed on priority and in a phased manner. He also called for coordinated efforts among departments to ensure timely resolution of public grievances and effective delivery of essential services.
The Minister directed the concerned officers to maintain close monitoring of developmental works and ensure their timely execution, quality standards and effective utilisation of public resources.
ADC Sopore Shabir Ahmad Raina, XEN R&B, senior officers from the Animal Husbandry, Sheep Husbandry and Rural Development departments, besides other concerned officers and officials, were present on the occasion.
