In a major effort to strengthen public infrastructure in border areas, Minister for Jal Shakti (Water Resources), Forest, Ecology & Environment, and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for several development projects in the Mendhar constituency.
These initiatives aim to improve essential services, enhance connectivity, and promote socio-economic development in the region.
The Minister inaugurated a newly constructed Food Store Building in Mendhar under the FCS and CA sector. Constructed at a cost of Rs. 151.80 lakh, the facility is expected to significantly strengthen the Public Distribution System by improving storage capacity and ensuring better availability of essential commodities for the local population.
As a major step towards promoting education and empowering young women, the Minister also inaugurated a 100-bedded Girls Hostel (G+1) in Mendhar. Constructed under the SAMAGRA (PAB) 2022–23 programme at a cost of Rs. 259 lakh, the hostel will provide safe and improved residential facilities for female students.
Further boosting infrastructure, the Minister also laid the foundation stone for a 300-meter RCC motorable bridge and culvert on the Jugal–Salwah road, to be built at an estimated cost of Rs. 120 lakh. The project is expected to enhance accessibility, facilitate smoother transportation, and stimulate economic growth in the surrounding areas.
Speaking on the occasion, Rana said that these projects reflect the government’s commitment to strengthening infrastructure and ensuring better facilities, particularly in remote and border areas. “Our government is committed to bridging the gap between rural and urban areas to achieve balanced and equitable development,” he said.
He added that sustained efforts are underway to bridge developmental gaps across sectors in Jammu and Kashmir, especially in underserved regions. Emphasizing the importance of infrastructure, education, and connectivity, the Minister said that these investments are key to accelerating growth and improving quality of life.
During his visit, the Minister also inspected and reviewed the progress of several ongoing projects, including the Synthetic Athletic Track at Bhatidhar, a 50 MVA, 132/33 KV Grid Station at Kottan, Mendhar, and polyhouses with high-density plantation under the HADP. He stressed the need for timely completion of these projects to ensure that their benefits reach the people without delay.
