DC Kathua initiates transformative projects during whirlwind tour of Bani Sub Division

KATHUA, January 19: Deputy Commissioner Dr. Rakesh Minhas embarked on a dynamic tour of the Bani sub division, inaugurating crucial projects and initiating key works to fortify development infrastructure in the remote periphery of Kathua.

At Backen, the Deputy Commissioner unveiled a significant bridge, a collaborative effort between the Border Roads Organization (BRO) and the Kathua administration. This bridge connects nearby habitations to the sub division headquarters, aiming to alleviate the local populace’s transportation challenges.

Expressing optimism, Dr. Minhas highlighted the anticipated relief in people’s suffering due to improved road connectivity resulting from the newly inaugurated bridge. He emphasized the importance of such projects in enhancing the overall well-being of the community.

In another milestone, the Deputy Commissioner dedicated the BRO Morh in Chandal, a pivotal point connecting nearby panchayats with the main Bani-Sarthal Road link. This strategic development promises increased accessibility and connectivity for the region.

Local residents, present at the ceremony, shared heartfelt testimonials. A retired ZEO remarked, “This road will change our lives for the better. We no longer have to travel long distances for healthcare or education. It brings prosperity and happiness to our community.”

While inaugurating BRO bridge, Dr. Minhas commended the engineering team for their commendable efforts in completing these critical structures. He acknowledged their dedication in mobilizing both manpower and machinery, underlining the strategic significance of these bridges for the entire region.

The DC also inspected works of 10 km Ghatti-Bhandar PMGSY road link which will be completed with an estimated cost of Rs 10.61 Crore.

Speaking on the occasion the DC appealed the locals including ex elected PRIs to maintain proper vigil on the quality assets making and report any compromising quality by the executing contractor.

Concluding the first day of the tour at Bhandar, the Deputy Commissioner convened a Public Meeting at Government High School building.

The number of deputations apprised the DC about the issues including Up-gradatiom of High School Bhandar, making provision for PHC, holding of special camps for electricity metering at Bhandar besides organising camps under HADP.

Throughout the whirlwind tour, Dr. Minhas engaged with various deputations, attentively listening to their demands. He issued directives to concerned officers for the timely resolution of projected issues, emphasizing the importance of updating action taken reports in his office promptly.

In interactions with the local residents, the Deputy Commissioner highlighted the government’s commitment to uplifting socio-economic conditions through various schemes. He called for collaborative efforts between departments and the community to maximize the benefits of these initiatives for the greater good of the people.

Responding to the issue of illegal encroachments, DC Kathua, took a firm stance during his visit to the disputed property of Narsingh ji Maharaj Temple in Bani, emphasizing stringent action against illegal encroachers. He announced the formation of a committee to assess land rates, with recovery plans for occupants. Additionally, those seeking to establish commercial ventures on a rental basis will be offered spaces at fixed rates determined by the administration. DC Kathua highlighted a one-month timeline for these measures, underscoring the administration’s commitment to addressing the issue promptly and systematically.

Earlier, in a significant stride towards promoting agricultural innovation and empowering local farmers, the DC Kathua handed over the sanction letter for a Low Tech Polyhouse under the Holistic Agriculture Development Program (HADP) to a progressive farmer in the panchayat Sitti in Block Bani.