Jammu, February 14 Jammu and Kashmir Transport Minister Satish Sharma met Chief Engineer of Border Roads Organisation for the Jammu province, Brigadier R K Mishra, in Jammu on Saturday, and held extensive discussions on key development priorities in border regions, an official said.
The meeting focused on strengthening infrastructure and improving connectivity in strategically important border areas to accelerate socio-economic development and enhance public service delivery, the official said.
Sharma, who also holds the portfolios of Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Youth Services and Sports, Science and Technology, ARI and Trainings, emphasized the need for sustained and coordinated efforts to ensure the timely completion of road construction, upgradation, and maintenance works in remote and sensitive areas.
Highlighting the strategic and developmental importance of border constituencies, the minister said robust road infrastructure plays a critical role not only in ensuring mobility but also in improving access to essential services such as healthcare, education, emergency response, and the supply of essential commodities.
He emphasized that better connectivity is fundamental to empowering local communities, promoting economic opportunities, and strengthening overall regional resilience.
During the interaction, detailed discussions were held on the status of ongoing projects, the identification of priority stretches requiring immediate attention, and the formulation of a time-bound roadmap for future infrastructure initiatives, the official said.
Sharma stressed the importance of adopting modern engineering practices, maintaining quality standards, and expediting project timelines to deliver tangible benefits to the people as quickly as possible.
The BRO Jammu Chief briefed the minister on the progress of various infrastructure works currently underway in the region.
He also outlined the upcoming plans aimed at further strengthening connectivity and enhancing the durability of road networks in border areas.
He reiterated the organisation's commitment to supporting developmental initiatives and assured full cooperation in fast-tracking priority projects.
Reaffirming the government's commitment to balanced and inclusive development, Sharma said special focus will continue to be accorded to border constituencies to bridge infrastructure gaps and improve the quality of life of residents living in far-flung areas.
He emphasized that coordinated institutional efforts and regular monitoring will remain key to ensuring the efficient implementation of development initiatives.