CM lays foundation of 13 projects in Shopian

Shopian, Jul 02: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday chaired a comprehensive review meeting of Shopian district to assess progress of developmental works, implementation of key government schemes, and overall delivery of public services, while dedicating development projects worth over Rs 76 crore to the people of the district and laying the foundation of major infrastructure works. The review meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, Minister for Health and Medical Education Sakina Itoo, Minister for Agriculture Production Javid Ahmad Dar, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLAs Shabir Ahmad Kullay and Showkat Hussain Ganai, Additional Chief Secretary to the CM Dheeraj Gupta, Deputy Commissioner Shopian, and other senior officials. Describing Shopian as a geographically small but strategically significant district with unique developmental challenges, the Chief Minister observed that its identity is intrinsically linked to its world-renowned apple industry, scenic beauty, and the historic Mughal Road. He said the government is committed to further strengthening these assets through focused investments and sustained developmental interventions. Acknowledging financial constraints, Omar Abdullah asserted that these would not become an obstacle to the district's progress. "There will be no injustice with Shopian or with any Assembly constituency of the district despite our financial limitations," he said, directing officers to immediately rectify shortcomings and expedite action on developmental demands projected by legislators. Emphasising effective implementation of projects sanctioned under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI), the Chief Minister asked the Deputy Commissioner to personally monitor these works to ensure timely execution. Earlier, the Chief Minister dedicated and laid the foundation of 13 developmental projects with a cumulative cost of Rs 76.45 crore, spanning roads, bridges, drinking water supply, urban development, rural infrastructure, and horticulture. Projects inaugurated included: upgradation of the Shirmal-Wathoo-Matipora road; water supply schemes at Shadab Karewa, Domwani, Adijen Gadipora, and Rebon Khojpora; construction of residential accommodation for PRI members at Gagren; the Trenz-Sheikhpora Bridge; and upgradation of the Safanagri-Lamine Darbagh Wachi Road. Projects for which foundation was laid include: construction of the Doompora multi-cell causeway; beautification of Shopian town through improved drains, lanes, and street lighting; a mechanical windrow composting unit at the Mega Fruit and Vegetable Mandi Aglar; a pasteurised compost making unit at Allowpora; and an auction platform at the Mega Fruit and Vegetable Mandi. Interacting with representatives of the Fruit Mandi Association, farmer groups, and horticulturists at Aglar, the Chief Minister reaffirmed the government's commitment to reducing hardships faced by the farming community. He assured that concerns relating to CA storage facilities, availability of shops, marketing infrastructure, and other genuine demands would be addressed on priority. He further assured growers that the government would take concrete measures to tackle spurious pesticides and work towards introducing effective solutions for weather-based crop insurance, hailstorm protection nets, and other risk mitigation measures. Later, the Chief Minister met several public delegations from different parts of Shopian district, giving them a patient hearing and assuring that all genuine issues would be examined and addressed on priority. He also visited exhibition stalls put up by various government departments and local entrepreneurs, appreciating efforts to promote local enterprise and rural livelihoods.