Mehbooba for speeding up projects in Rajouri, Poonch

Tribune News Service

Srinagar, September 26

Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti today called for a proactive approach to expedite implementation of infrastructural and developmental projects in Rajouri and Poonch.

She said this while reviewing projects in the districts at a high-level meeting this morning.

In the sector and scheme-wise review of the developmental programmes and projects under implementation in the twin districts, the Chief Minister gave directions to administrative secretaries and directed the executing agencies to speed up the work, an official spokesman said.

Referring to the huge potential of Rajouri and Poonch districts in heritage, adventure and border tourism, she directed the Tourism Department to focus on creation of infrastructure that could help in attracting tourists.

Mehbooba said tourism infrastructure needed to be developed keeping in mind its relevance to the area and also its linkage to creation of livelihood opportunities.

“She underscored the importance of development of facilities along Mughal Road, highlighting its direct relevance to the development of tourism,” the spokesman said.

Mehbooba was informed that projects had been proposed under the Prime Minister’s Development Package, including development of tourist facilities at Loran and Jalian in Poonch. Tourism projects in Rajouri included facilities at Tata Pani, Rajouri Development Authority Midway Complex and around Rajouri Qila Dantitop.

She was informed that tourist facilities were also being developed at Noori Chamb and Peer ki Gali.

The Chief Minister also stressed on the need for improving and upgrading road connectivity. She issued instructions for expediting work on important roads, including the Budhal-Shopian road. Mehbooba also called upon the Border Roads Organisation to improve the critical stretches on Mughal Road and various other roads.

Regarding declaration of Mughal Road as a national highway and construction of tunnel, the meeting was told the matter was being pursued with the Centre.

With regard to the health sector, the Chief Minister sought details regarding status of upcoming medical college at Rajouri and issues related to healthcare facilities in the region.