CM reviews functioning of Estates, Hospitality & Protocol Deptts

Jammu, Nov 19: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Tuesday chaired review meetings of the Estates Department and the Hospitality and Protocol Department.

Chairing the meeting of the Estates Department, he the department to make a comprehensive assessment of facilities required for the next 15 years, emphasising the need to transition from a rental-based system to a sustainable infrastructure model.

Calling rentals “a constant drain,” the CM proposed shifting focus towards construction projects and suggested short-term hiring as an interim measure.

He highlighted inefficiencies in the current system and stressed the importance of addressing structural and operational gaps.

He called for the establishment of consolidated allotment rules to ensure transparency and accountability in allotting accommodations.

CM Omar also gave directions for the assessment of dilapidated properties, seeking a comprehensive report on their current state and proposals for renovation or repurposing.

On modernising civil secretariat infrastructure, he stressed the need for enhanced weatherproofing to make Srinagar offices more winter-friendly and Jammu offices more summer-friendly.

To improve financial management, the CM instructed officials to study penal rent policies in other states for implementing a fair and effective system.

He urged prioritising suitable lodging arrangements for MLAs, particularly during assembly sessions in January or February.

CM Omar advocated for a one-time investment approach to develop assets that could be monetised in the future, while also reassessing commercial property rentals at current market rates and upgrading electrical infrastructure in both Srinagar and Jammu secretariats.

He reiterated the importance of holistic planning to address residential and office accommodation shortages while ensuring judicious use of public funds.

“This reform-focused approach marks a pivotal step toward creating a self-reliant Estates Department capable of meeting the government’s evolving needs over the next decade and beyond,” the CM said.

He also directed the department to prepare assets and occupancy lists for properties in both Jammu and Kashmir divisions, to ensure that there is proper mechanism for allotments as per entitlement.

The meeting reviewed ongoing projects, including the construction of flats at Sarwal, Ahata Amar Singh and Lower Muthi in Jammu division, as well as 400 flats at Pampore and new flats at Jawahar Nagar in the Kashmir division.

During the meeting, the officials of the department informed that projects were nearing completion and expected to alleviate the growing demand for residential accommodations.

The Estates Department’s CAPEX Budget for 2024-25 was also discussed and the meeting was informed that 68.7 percent of expenditure has been made in respect of the current year's budget.

The meeting was attended by Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary Estates Department Shaleen Kabra, Additional Chief Secretary to Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Secretary Public Works (Roads and Buildings) Bhupinder Kumar, Director Estates Kashmir and Jammu Tariq Ganai, and other concerned officers.

Earlier, the ACS Estates Department gave a detailed presentation of the functioning and assets of the Estates Department in J&K.

The meeting concluded with discussions on proposed projects, including a Gate Plaza at the civil secretariat in Srinagar and other developmental initiatives in Jammu.

CM Omar also chaired a review meeting of the functioning of the Hospitality and Protocol Department during a review meeting of the department.

He called the department to focus on the optimal utilisation, upgradation, and renovation of departmental assets both inside and outside Jammu and Kashmir.

The CM reviewed the functioning and status of prominent properties, including those in Chanakyapuri, 5-Prithvi Raj Road, and Rajaji Marg in Delhi, emphasising the need to fully utilise these assets and upgrade facilities to enhance their utility.

He also directed focused efforts on properties at Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Srinagar, Udhampur, and Jammu, ensuring these are used efficiently and maintained to high standards.

Discussions during the meeting covered revenue realisation, rate revision, and facelifting of prized properties, particularly 5-Prithvi Raj Road in New Delhi.

CM Omar called for the creation of new assets at strategic locations within and outside J&K to meet future needs and generate additional revenue.

He also directed immediate renovation and upgradation of the Banquet Hall in Srinagar, including improvements to the audio system, furniture, bathrooms, and other amenities.

The CM stressed the importance of fire safety measures and fire audits in properties, especially heritage sites where invaluable items are stored, ensuring these assets are protected against potential risks.

He reiterated the importance of maximising the potential of H&P assets while ensuring their upkeep and modernisation to reflect the government’s commitment to efficiency and resourcefulness.

The meeting also addressed the augmentation of existing assets, strengthening manpower to fill up various categories of posts and revisiting recruitment rules to improve the efficiency and operational capabilities of the department.

The meeting was attended by Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary to Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Commissioner Secretary H&P Rashmi Singh, Director H&P, and other concerned officers.

During the meeting, Commissioner Secretary Rashmi Singh gave a detailed presentation on department’s assets, including those located outside Jammu and Kashmir like the properties in Delhi, Chandigarh, Amritsar, and Mumbai.