Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Kumar Choudhary today conducted an extensive tour of Handwara in Kupwara district to review developmental works, assess public facilities and hold public outreach programmes at multiple locations. The Deputy Chief Minister was accompanied by Member of Parliament Chowdhury Mohammad Ramzan and MLA Uri Dr. Sajjad Shafi.
During an extensive tour, the Deputy Chief Minister also inaugurated the 110-meter-long Drugmulla–Hatmulla Bridge over Nallah Apurpur. Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy CM said that the long-awaited bridge project will significantly improve connectivity, mobility and ease of transportation for the people of Drugmulla and adjoining areas.
“This bridge which was pending for a long time will enhance access to essential services and create better opportunities for local residents,” he said. The Deputy Chief Minister also visited the Bus Stand and Main Market in Handwara and addressed large gatherings of local transport and trader associations.
The Deputy Chief Minister assured that the Government is committed to welfare of transporters and traders and assured all genuine issues shall be addressed on priority. He underscored that the present Government has undertaken several long-pending developmental works in Handwara to complete on a fast-track basis.
He informed that work on various vital road and bridge projects, five roads under PMGSY have also been approved for Handwara and work on these projects will commence soon. Referring to the Drugmulla Bridge, he said the project had remained pending for a long time but was completed within two years by the present Government.
The Deputy Chief Minister directed the concerned authorities to identify suitable land for construction of a Labour Sarai facility at Handwara for the convenience of workers and commuters. He also reviewed macadamization works and other ongoing developmental projects and instructed officers to ensure strict adherence to quality standards and timely completion of all works.
During the daylong tour, the Deputy Chief Minister also conducted public outreach programmes at Rajwar in Bungus and other locations, where he interacted with public delegations and reiterated the Government’s commitment towards robust development, improved public services and responsive governance across Kupwara district
While addressing the gathering, he said the picturesque Rajwar Bungus is blessed with immense natural beauty and tourism potential. He stated that the Government is commitment towards welfare, development upliftment of local population through improved infrastructure, public services and sustainable growth initiatives.
He also visited Government Medical College (GMC) Handwara to assess the healthcare facilities being provided to the public. During inspection the Deputy Chief Minister held detailed discussion with the Principal, doctors and other staff members and reviewed the availability of infrastructure, medical equipment and other essential facilities.
He emphasized the need for strengthening healthcare services and ensuring quality patient care for the people. MP Chowdhury Mohammad Ramzan and MLA Dr Sajjad Shafi also addressed the gatherings during public outreach programmes. Earlier, the Deputy Chief Minister also visited the residence of MP Er. Sheikh Abdul Rashid and MLA Sheikh Khurshied at Mawar, Langate, to offer condolences on the demise of their father and expressed sympathies with them.
Later, the Deputy Chief Minister also inspected the ongoing construction work of the Rs 12.5 Cr, 3x18m span Bakhiaker Bridge project in Handwara and directed officials to ensure its completion within the next three months to improve connectivity and mobility for the local population.
Senior officers from PMGSY, R&B, Mining, DICQ, Labour and Employment and officers from the district administration also accompanied the Deputy Chief Minister.