Satish Sharma Launches Development Projects Worth Over Rs 10 Crore in Chhamb, Emphasises Infrastructure-Led Growth
Jammu, July 17: Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports, and Science & Technology, Satish Sharma, on Friday inaugurated and laid foundation stones for a series of development projects worth over ₹10 crore across the Chhamb constituency, reaffirming the government's commitment to strengthening infrastructure, improving public services and promoting balanced regional development.
The projects span multiple sectors, including roads, bridges, administrative infrastructure, sports, healthcare and veterinary services, and are aimed at improving connectivity, expanding access to essential services and accelerating socio-economic development in rural and border areas.
The Minister inaugurated the Thandi Choi–Sainth Road, constructed at a cost of ₹1.50 crore, describing road connectivity as a key driver of economic growth and regional development. He said improved road infrastructure facilitates trade, education, healthcare access and better livelihood opportunities.
At Kharah Balli, Sharma laid the foundation stone for a new Tehsil Office Building to be constructed at an estimated cost of ₹76.74 lakh. He said the modern administrative complex would enhance governance by bringing public services closer to the people and improving administrative efficiency.
He also inaugurated the Kharah Bridge, built at a cost of ₹3.45 crore, which is expected to provide all-weather connectivity to several adjoining villages and ease the movement of residents, students, farmers and emergency services.
Further strengthening rural connectivity, the Minister laid the foundation stone for the Chaprial–Bardoh Road project, estimated at ₹2.50 crore. He said the project would improve transportation, facilitate agricultural and commercial activities and contribute to the region's overall economic growth.
Highlighting the government's focus on youth development, Sharma inaugurated a Volleyball Court at Pallanwala, developed at a cost of ₹20.99 lakh. He said the government is committed to expanding modern sports infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir to nurture young talent and encourage greater participation in sports.
The Minister also distributed medical equipment to enhance healthcare facilities in the area, stating that the government continues to invest in strengthening public health infrastructure and ensuring accessible healthcare services.
Later, Sharma laid the foundation stone for a Veterinary Hospital at Khour, to be constructed at an estimated cost of ₹2.07 crore. He said the project would strengthen veterinary services, support livestock farmers and contribute to improving rural livelihoods.
Addressing public gatherings during the programme, Sharma said the Omar Abdullah-led government remains committed to transparent, accountable and development-oriented governance, with special emphasis on inclusive growth and equitable development across all regions.
He said infrastructure development, improved governance, youth empowerment and enhanced public service delivery remain among the government's top priorities, adding that every project undertaken has been designed to address local needs and improve the quality of life of the people.
During the visit, the Minister also interacted with local residents, public representatives, youth and members of community organisations, assuring them that genuine public grievances and developmental demands would be addressed on priority. He further directed officials to ensure the timely completion of ongoing projects and the effective execution of new development initiatives.
Senior officers of the district administration, engineers of executing agencies, public representatives and a large number of local residents were present on the occasion. ANB
