Srinagar, May 19, 2025: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah chaired a high-level meeting at the Civil Secretariat in Srinagar to review proposals for the reorganization of departments under the Housing & Urban Development Department. The meeting focused on strengthening institutional capacity, ensuring effective utilization of resources, and promoting long-term sustainability in urban development initiatives across the Union Territory.
Abdullah emphasized the need for a robust framework to enhance the efficiency of the Housing & Urban Development Department, which plays a critical role in addressing the region’s urbanization challenges. “Our priority is to build institutional capacity that ensures sustainable urban development and optimal use of resources. The reorganization of departments must align with the goal of creating resilient and inclusive urban ecosystems,” he stated during the meeting.
The proposals discussed included streamlining departmental functions, improving coordination between agencies, and integrating modern urban planning techniques to address the growing demands of Jammu and Kashmir’s cities and towns. Key areas of focus were affordable housing, infrastructure development, waste management, and eco-friendly urban policies to ensure long-term sustainability.
Officials presented plans to enhance the department’s capacity through technology-driven solutions, capacity-building programs for staff, and public-private partnerships to accelerate project implementation. The Chief Minister directed officials to prioritize transparency and accountability in the reorganization process, ensuring that the revamped structure delivers tangible benefits to citizens.
Abdullah also underscored the importance of aligning the department’s objectives with the Union Territory’s broader development goals. “The reorganization is not just about restructuring; it’s about creating a system that is responsive to the needs of our people and capable of driving sustainable growth,” he added.
The meeting was attended by senior officials from the Housing & Urban Development Department, urban planners, and representatives from related agencies. The Chief Minister instructed the department to finalize the reorganization proposals within a stipulated timeframe, incorporating feedback from stakeholders to ensure inclusivity.
This initiative reflects Abdullah’s commitment to governance reforms and sustainable development, as seen in his recent efforts to address other pressing issues in Jammu and Kashmir, such as post-conflict rehabilitation and tourism recovery. The reorganization of the Housing & Urban Development Department is expected to pave the way for more efficient urban governance and improved quality of life for residents.
