J&K Dy CM inaugurates water supply scheme at Sopore fruit mandi

Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Chaudhary on Saturday visited Sopore and inaugurated a water supply scheme at the Sopore’s Fruit Mandi, Asia’s second largest fruit marketplace.

A spokesperson said the inauguration ceremony was attended by Minister for Jal Shakti, Forests and Tribal Affairs Javed Ahmad Rana, Minister for Agricultural Production, Rural Development & Panchayati Raj Javid Ahmad Dar and Sopore MLA Irshad Ahmad Kar.

“This critical infrastructure constructed under PMDP at the cost of Rs 6.37 crore will now ensure provision of clean and safe drinking water for thousands of traders, workers and visitors who frequently visit the mandi,” the statement said.

The Deputy CM highlighted the importance of ensuring essential services like clean drinking water in such a large trading hub. He emphasised that the water supply scheme is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to support economic growth by improving basic infrastructure.

“This water supply scheme will not only provide clean drinking water to the mandi but will also enhance the quality of life for thousands who work here every day,” he said.

He highlighted that the initiative aligns with broader efforts to enhance infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir, making it more conducive to trade and economic growth, the spokesperson said.

In his address, Javed Ahmad Rana said water supply scheme is in response to the long-standing need in the mandi and represents the Jal Shakti department’s commitment to public welfare. He acknowledged the importance of access to clean water in preventing health risks and supporting productivity in the state’s agricultural hubs.

The Deputy CM and other ministers engaged with the public in an interactive session, where President of Sopore Fruit Mandi raised the issues concerning macadamisation of inner links of the Sopore Fruit Mandi, truck yard, construction of the Mazbugh Bridge, widening of the Ladoora Sopore Fruit Mandi Road, the macadamisation of a private shopping complex, street lighting, and other development issues.