Ramban, Oct 22: Member Legislative Assembly Banihal–Gool Sajjad Shaheen on Thursday laid the foundation stone of a ₹1.96-crore road project connecting Lamber GujjarNar with National Highway-44.
The project, being executed by the Public Works Department (R&B), aims to address a longstanding demand of residents of Lamber and adjoining villages, who have faced difficulties due to the lack of direct road connectivity with the highway.
Upon completion, the road is expected to reduce travel distance, improve accessibility and facilitate the movement of people and essential commodities.
Speaking on the occasion, Shaheen said strengthening road infrastructure in remote and mountainous areas was essential to improving public convenience and access to basic services. He said efforts were underway to address infrastructure gaps through road, bridge and other development projects across the Banihal–Gool constituency.
The MLA also referred to road projects sanctioned under PMGSY-IV, including Ramsoo–Sarbagni, Makerkote–Dardahi and Livra–Gagarnag, with a combined estimated cost of ₹64.74 crore.
Highlighting other development initiatives, he referred to the Model Higher Secondary School project at Banihal, the proposed development of 58 playgrounds and seven mini-stadiums, and plans for an indoor stadium to promote sports among local youth. He also underscored initiatives to improve bridge connectivity, education, power supply and healthcare facilities.
Shaheen stressed the need for timely execution of sanctioned projects and coordination among departments to ensure that development benefits reach people in remote and far-flung areas.
Executive Engineer, PWD (R&B), Mohammad Iqbal Ganai; Assistant Engineer Nasir Ahmad Wani; senior officials and prominent residents of Lamber and adjoining villages were present on the occasion.
