Srinagar – In a concerted effort to expedite infrastructure development across Jammu and Kashmir, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary recently conducted a high-level meeting to assess the progress of Public Works Department (PWD) projects. The meeting, held in Srinagar, underscored the government’s commitment to completing critical projects within stipulated timeframes, and outlined a zero-tolerance policy for delays and substandard work. Choudhary emphasized the necessity for strict adherence to quality standards, warning contractors that delays would attract severe penalties.
The Deputy Chief Minister reviewed the status of projects under various schemes, including Roads and Buildings (R&B), Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), and those pertaining to urban infrastructure, pothole repairs, mechanical works, and projects funded by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD). A firm stance was taken against any lapses in quality or project timelines, highlighting the administration’s resolve to improve infrastructure efficiently. As per information available with TahirRihat.com, Choudhary specifically directed officials to expedite the renovation and upgrade of PWD Guest Houses, ensuring their completion according to the set schedules. He also emphasized the prompt execution of blacktopping works across Jammu and Kashmir, which are vital for improving road quality and connectivity.
The Deputy Chief Minister stressed the importance of faster implementation of major infrastructure projects, directing officials to prioritize large road projects under the State Annual Sector Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme to ensure their swift commencement. During the review, progress under diverse sectors such as R&B, PMGSY, and projects in cities and towns, funded by the Central Road Infrastructure Fund (CRIF) and the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF), was examined. Choudhary (Daily Excelsior reported) instructed senior officers, including Superintending Engineers and Executive Engineers, to conduct regular site inspections to maintain quality and pace of work.
During the comprehensive review, Deputy Chief Minister Choudhary underscored that strict adherence to quality benchmarks would be expected in all ongoing and upcoming projects. He asserted, (Daily Excelsior reported), that there would be “no tolerance for substandard execution, delays, or administrative lapses.” He added (Daily Excelsior reported), that “There is no room for quality compromise. Accountability must be visible at every level,” instructing officers to ensure close supervision and timely project completion.
Expeditious resolution of land acquisition, forest clearance, and compensation cases was also emphasized to prevent project delays. Deputy Chief Minister Choudhary directed (Daily Excelsior reported) that bar charts be prominently displayed at all project sites to facilitate progress monitoring. The Deputy Chief Minister specifically highlighted acceleration of work on key projects, including the Ramban Bridge, Majalta Bridge, PWD Guest House Udhampur, New Assembly Complex Jammu, Pragwal–Inderpati Bridge, PWD Guest House Hyderpora, Boulevard Road, and other major road and bridge projects across Jammu and Kashmir.
Furthermore, the Deputy Chief Minister called for clearing impediments obstructing road widening projects. According to Daily Excelsior, he stressed that all procedural requirements, including technical sanctions, tendering processes, and allotments, should be completed as quickly as possible to ensure timely execution. Deputy Chief Minister Choudhary also directed the concerned officials to submit a detailed report on the Ramnagar accident and instructed immediate replacement of poorly constructed parapets at identified locations to enhance public safety.
The meeting saw the participation of Chief Engineers, the Director of Finance, planning officials, Superintending Engineers, and Executive Engineers from all engineering wings of Jammu and Kashmir. The Deputy Chief Minister’s firm stance on project completion and quality underscores the administration’s dedication to upgrading infrastructure and ensuring accountability within the Public Works Department.
This initiative reflects a broader push to enhance connectivity and public amenities across the region. By prioritizing timely execution and quality workmanship, the government aims to stimulate economic activities and improve the overall living standards of residents. The focus on key infrastructure projects and strict monitoring mechanisms indicates a forward-looking approach aimed at long-term sustainable development.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.