Tanveer Hussain
Budgam, October 23: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday inaugurated development projects worth around ₹25 crore and laid foundation stones for five projects in the Beerwah constituency of central Kashmir’s Budgam district. On the occasion, he said he would always remain indebted to the people of Beerwah for the support they extended to him during the 2014 Assembly elections and would continue working to repay their trust through public service.
Speaking to reporters, the Chief Minister said his focus remained on addressing local development needs and ensuring the timely completion of pending works. Recalling his association with Beerwah, he said the voters had extended their support to him in 2014, and he would continue striving to repay their favour through development and service to the people.
One of the key projects was the reconstruction of the bridge over Nallah Sukhnag, a long-pending demand of local residents. Omar Abdullah said the bridge had been opened to the public and thanked the Deputy Chief Minister and concerned officials for expediting the work.
He further said that steps had been initiated to improve the surroundings of the stream, including the development of a walking track and decks along its banks. Additionally, ₹4 crore has been earmarked for the construction and improvement of lanes and drainage systems across the constituency.
Addressing public concerns regarding electricity infrastructure, the Chief Minister acknowledged complaints about the existing receiving station. He said the foundation stone for a new receiving station had been laid and expressed hope that the facility would become operational within the next four to five months.
Omar Abdullah also announced the establishment of a transformer repair workshop in the area. He said the facility would help reduce difficulties faced by residents during winter, particularly when damaged transformers have to be transported to other areas for repairs.
The Chief Minister said the government would prioritise pending development works in Beerwah. Responding to the demand for a sports stadium, he said a suitable site would be identified so that the Sports Department could take forward the project.
Regarding the national highway passing through the centre of Beerwah town, Omar Abdullah acknowledged concerns raised by local traders and residents. He said people feared that diverting traffic away from the town could adversely affect local businesses.
He added that the matter had been taken up with the concerned highway authorities and that efforts would be made to address the concerns of the local population while considering the implications for traders and the town’s commercial activity.
The Chief Minister declined to comment on questions regarding a possible Cabinet expansion and other political matters, stating that his focus during the visit was on Beerwah’s development and addressing public concerns related to roads and infrastructure.
