Omar Abdullah reviewed plans to build new J&K Houses in New Delhi and Mumbai and renovate existing ones, emphasizing that they reflect the cultural identity of Jammu and Kashmir.
Mar 11, Srinagar: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah reviewed plans to expand and revamp Jammu and Kashmir government properties across several cities in India, including proposals for new J&K Houses in Dwarka in the national capital and Navi Mumbai.
Chairing a high-level meeting, the Chief Minister emphasized that upcoming and renovated J&K Houses must reflect the rich cultural heritage and distinct identity of Jammu and Kashmir.
He directed officials to ensure that the new constructions and modernisation of existing facilities incorporate architectural elements representing the region’s cultural legacy while maintaining modern functionality.
The meeting reviewed the status of J&K government properties in Dwarka and 5 Prithviraj Road in New Delhi, as well as facilities in Chandigarh, Amritsar and Mumbai. Proposals for expanding accommodation and administrative infrastructure for officials, students, patients and visitors from Jammu and Kashmir were also discussed.
Officials informed the Chief Minister that steps have been initiated to establish a new J&K House in Dwarka to augment accommodation facilities for the Union Territory’s officials and visitors. Another J&K House is proposed at Kharghar in Navi Mumbai to strengthen the UT’s presence in the country’s financial capital.
Reviewing the proposal for a J&K House in Amritsar, the Chief Minister asked officials to take up the issue of land consolidation with the Punjab government, noting that the currently available land parcels are scattered and may not be suitable for developing a functional facility.
Regarding the Navi Mumbai project, officials said a Detailed Project Report (DPR) worth ₹29.56 crore has been submitted along with a capital expenditure proposal of about ₹30 crore for construction of the facility.
The Chief Minister also asked officials to study similar state guest houses and institutional properties established by other states and Union Territories to adopt best practices in infrastructure, architecture and service delivery.
He further stressed the need to complete the projects within the shortest possible timeframe to ensure improved facilities for residents of Jammu and Kashmir visiting major cities.
The meeting also discussed the possibility of assigning construction and renovation works to agencies such as the National Buildings Construction Corporation (NBCC) and the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) for efficient execution.
Earlier, Resident Commissioner Ramesh Kumar presented a detailed briefing on various properties managed by the J&K Resident Commission, including offices, staff quarters, guest houses and VIP accommodation.
The meeting also reviewed development proposals such as upgrading VIP rooms into suites at the Chanakyapuri J&K House complex, redevelopment of the Rajaji Marg property in New Delhi, and extension of guest house facilities at 5 Prithviraj Road.
Senior officers of the Resident Commission and other concerned departments attended the meeting and presented updates on ongoing projects, budgetary requirements and future development plans aimed at strengthening Jammu and Kashmir’s institutional infrastructure across the country.