Ganderbal,November 19, 2025 – Chief Minister Omar Abdullah marked a significant milestone in the region’s infrastructure push by inaugurating and laying foundation stones for several vital road development projects in Ganderbal district. These initiatives, totaling over ₹14 crore, aim to enhance connectivity, improve accessibility for remote villages, and foster socio-economic growth in one of Jammu and Kashmir’s key central districts.The highlight of the event was the inauguration of the upgradation and widening of the Dak Bungalow Fatehpora–Gadoora road, a ₹5.2 crore project designed to modernize a crucial stretch linking rural areas and easing daily commutes for thousands of residents. This upgrade includes asphalt resurfacing, drainage improvements, and safety enhancements to withstand harsh Himalayan weather. Complementing this, the Chief Minister laid the foundation for the upgradation of various link roads in Sherpathri Block, valued at ₹8.9 crore. These interconnected pathways will connect multiple villages in the block, reducing travel times, boosting agricultural transport, and opening new avenues for tourism in the scenic Sindh Valley.
“This is about building bridges—literal and figurative—between our people and progress,” CM Abdullah stated during the ceremony, emphasizing the government’s commitment to equitable development. “Improved roads mean better access to markets, schools, and healthcare. In Ganderbal, we’re not just paving paths; we’re paving the way for a brighter future.” The projects align with the Jammu and Kashmir government’s broader vision under the Special Assistance for States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme, targeting 80% fund utilization by December 2025 through fortnightly reviews.The event unfolded amid a comprehensive review of district progress, where Abdullah inspected departmental stalls showcasing schemes like PM Suryaghar Muft Bijli Yojana, PM Awas Yojana, and initiatives from horticulture, agriculture, and animal husbandry departments. He also inaugurated additional infrastructure, including a ₹3.84 crore 4 MGD common pre-settling tank and water treatment plant revamp in Ganderbal Town to address urban water scarcity; a ₹4.17 crore 33/11 KV receiving station at Wangath, Kangan for reliable power supply; a ₹1.81 crore road upgradation from Spring Naga Mohallah Shallar to Dab at Batpora, Lar; a ₹1.72 crore Model Floriculture Centre at Nunnar (FPO Park) to empower farmer producer organizations; and ₹3.08 crore for upgradation of earthen ponds at NFSF Manasbal, enhancing fisheries and eco-tourism.
Addressing local concerns, the Chief Minister sanctioned water tankers from his Constituency Development Fund (CDF) to tackle immediate shortages and directed officials to draft a long-term traffic decongestion plan for Ganderbal market. He advocated for Sonamarg’s development as a hub for winter sports and tourism, urging investments in snow infrastructure to rival global destinations. “Ganderbal’s potential is immense—from Manasbal Lake’s biodiversity to Sonamarg’s slopes. We must harness it sustainably,” he added.Accompanying the CM were key dignitaries, including Minister for Health & Medical Education, Higher Education, and School Education Sakina Itoo; Minister for Jal Shakti Javed Ahmed Rana; Minister for Agriculture Javid Ahmed Dar; Minister for Transport Satish Sharma; Advisor to the CM Nasir Aslam Wani; MLA Kangan Mian Mehar Ali; Additional Chief Secretary Dheeraj Gupta; Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal Jatin Kishore; SSP Ganderbal; and heads of departments from Jal Shakti, KPDCL, and Roads & Buildings (R&B).Deputy Commissioner Kishore presented a detailed overview of November 2025 developments, covering urban planning, road and power infrastructure, agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry, education, social welfare, and winter tourism.
The district has seen accelerated progress post the restoration of statehood, with these projects exemplifying collaborative governance.Ganderbal, nestled along the Srinagar-Leh highway, has long faced connectivity challenges due to its rugged terrain. These road enhancements are expected to generate employment during construction, stimulate local economies, and integrate remote areas into the mainstream. Experts hail the initiatives as a model for aspirational districts, promoting a circular economy through better logistics for horticultural produce and eco-friendly tourism.As Jammu and Kashmir advances toward sustainable development, CM Abdullah’s visit reinforces the administration’s “whole-of-government” approach, ensuring no village is left behind. With over 100 such projects underway statewide, the focus remains on timely execution and community benefits.For updates on Jammu and Kashmir’s infrastructure agenda, follow the official CMO portal.
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