CM outlines winter sports plans, says ₹40-crore Jhelum bridge is targeted for completion by December next year
Ganderbal, Oct 15: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday outlined plans to develop Sonamarg as a year-round tourism destination while addressing infrastructure projects and civic concerns during his visit to central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district.
Speaking to reporters during the visit, Abdullah said development works worth approximately ₹60 crore had either been inaugurated or had their foundation stones laid in the district, including a major bridge project over the Jhelum River.
The ₹40-crore bridge project has completed its test-piling stage, the Chief Minister said, adding that the pillars were expected to be completed by April, while the entire project was targeted for completion by December next year.
Several road projects and a new school building were also inaugurated during the visit.
CM outlines winter tourism plans for Sonamarg
Speaking about Sonamarg’s tourism potential, Abdullah said the area had traditionally remained inaccessible during winter but had become accessible throughout the year following the opening of the tunnel.
He said the improved connectivity had created opportunities to develop tourism infrastructure and identify new destinations and activities for visitors.
The government was preparing projects to promote adventure tourism and winter sports, including skiing, skating and other seasonal activities. Summer rafting was also among the activities being considered.
Abdullah expressed his willingness to work with local MLA Mian Mehar Ali to establish Sonamarg as a prominent destination on Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism map, with particular emphasis on winter tourism and adventure sports.
Zazna mandi traders seek improved facilities
During his visit to the Zazna fruit and vegetable mandi, the Chief Minister interacted with traders and other stakeholders and took note of their demands for expansion of the facility, construction of a boundary wall and improvement of other infrastructure.
The mandi has a modern auction shed and office facilities.
On the demand for a crash barrier or road divider near the mandi, Abdullah said the matter had been discussed with local National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) officials, adding that efforts would be made to address the issue.
CM to take up PDC canal fencing demand
Addressing concerns over repeated incidents involving loss of life in the Power Development Corporation (PDC) canal, Abdullah said the demand for protective fencing along its banks would be taken up with the authorities concerned.
He said the Corporation functioned under the supervision of the Lieutenant Governor and that the government would request it to allocate funds for installing protective fencing.
The Chief Minister said he could not announce a decision independently but assured residents that their demand would be conveyed to the authorities concerned.
Chinar trees, traffic congestion remain concerns
Abdullah also addressed concerns over traffic congestion in Ganderbal, where Chinar trees have posed challenges for vehicular movement amid rising population and increasing traffic pressure.
He said an alternative road connecting the bus stand through the hospital area had been developed, although Chinar trees could also affect traffic movement along that route.
The Chief Minister said the government did not intend to indiscriminately cut down Chinar trees, stressing the need to balance development requirements with environmental concerns.
He suggested that, wherever necessary, some trees could be removed and eight to ten new Chinar trees planted at suitable locations away from roads as part of a possible solution to the growing traffic problem.
On pending compensation cases, Abdullah said the matters were being pursued and would be examined by the newly posted Deputy Commissioner after she had settled into her assignment.
Ganderbal hosts 70th National School Games
Referring to the 70th National School Games being held at the College of Physical Education in Ganderbal, Abdullah said participants from across the country had arrived for the sporting event.
He said Jammu and Kashmir had been allotted two disciplines—Wushu and Taekwondo—and expressed hope that the event would be successful, noting the keen interest of local children in both sports.
