Salwah, Sep 13: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs Javed Ahmed Rana on Saturday inaugurated completed development projects and laid foundation stones for several new works aimed at strengthening road connectivity, drinking water supply, education and healthcare infrastructure in Salwah area of Mendhar.
During his visit to Salwah block, Rana inspected ongoing development works and reviewed their physical and financial progress. He was informed that projects worth around ₹70 crore are currently under execution in the block.
The Minister directed the concerned departments and executing agencies to ensure timely completion of the projects while adhering to prescribed technical specifications and maintaining quality standards. He also stressed regular field-level monitoring and better coordination among departments to address bottlenecks.
Among the completed works inaugurated by Rana was the macadamized Nakka Salwah Road, constructed under the Cities and Towns Scheme at a cost of ₹90 lakh. He also inaugurated a newly constructed school building at Middle School Khorbani Salwah, completed under the CDF Scheme at a cost of ₹20 lakh.
Rana said improved roads, educational facilities and other basic infrastructure were essential for inclusive development and improving the quality of life in rural and underserved areas.
He also laid the foundation stone for the Nakka Salwah–Nar Tarkhana road under the SASCI scheme, estimated to cost ₹2.40 crore. The road is expected to improve connectivity to educational institutions, healthcare facilities, markets and other essential services.
A foundation stone was also laid for a Sub Centre building at Salwah under the District CAPEX Budget at an estimated cost of ₹45 lakh. The facility is aimed at strengthening primary healthcare services in the area.
To augment drinking water infrastructure, Rana laid foundation stones for three Water Supply Schemes under UT CAPEX—WSS Pathanteer costing ₹1.50 crore, WSS Salwah Ghutna costing ₹89.50 lakh and WSS Salwah costing ₹6.34 crore.
The Minister said ensuring reliable drinking water supply, particularly in rural areas, remained a priority of the Omar Abdullah-led government.
As part of the “People’s Participation for a Better J&K” initiative, Rana also interacted with local residents, students and other stakeholders at Government Higher Secondary School, Salwah.
Residents raised issues related to road connectivity, drinking water, healthcare, education and other basic amenities. Rana assured them that the concerns would be examined on priority and taken up with the concerned departments for appropriate action.
He directed officials to maintain close engagement with the public and ensure that development works were implemented transparently, efficiently and within stipulated timelines.
