Jammu, March 11 The Jammu and Kashmir government has approved the construction of a helipad along with a waiting lounge facility in Qasab village in the Mendhar sector of the Poonch district, officials said.
The project, which is estimated to cost Rs 3.35 crore, marks a significant step towards strengthening critical infrastructure along the Line of Control in the border district, they said.
Minister for Water Resources, Forests, and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for sanctioning the helipad.
Rana, who represents the Mendhar assembly constituency, said that the establishment of the helipad and accompanying waiting lounge will play a crucial role in enhancing emergency response capabilities, improving accessibility, and facilitating swift movement during medical emergencies, disaster management operations, and other urgent situations.
The facility will also support administrative and relief operations in the area, which often face geographical and logistical challenges due to its remote and hilly terrain, he said.
Rana said that the timely sanction by the chief minister reflects his strong commitment to balanced regional development and the welfare of people living in far-flung and border areas.
He said that improved connectivity infrastructure, such as helipads, can be life-saving in emergencies, particularly in regions where road access can be limited or affected by weather conditions.
"The sanctioning of this project will significantly enhance the capacity of the administration to respond promptly to emergencies and ensure better connectivity for the people of Mendhar and surrounding areas. I sincerely thank the chief minister for his continued support and vision for strengthening infrastructure in remote areas along the LoC," the minister said.
Rana reiterated that the government remains dedicated towards strengthening the infrastructure, improving accessibility, and ensuring that developmental initiatives reach every corner of Jammu and Kashmir, especially the underserved and border areas.