Dy CM launches road macadamisation drive, reviews R&B deptt performance

Srinagar, Jun 11: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary today chaired a comprehensive review meeting of the Roads & Buildings (R&B) Department and formally launched the annual road macadamisation programme for Jammu & Kashmir.

Secretary, Public Works Department (PWD), Bhupinder Kumar, presented a detailed overview of the department's performance and plans for the current financial year. Chief Engineers from Central and South Kashmir informed that around 312.87 km in Central Kashmir and 234.88 km in South Kashmir have been proposed for macadamisation under various schemes including the Capex & Tied (C&T) component, NABARD, UT sector, and CRIF.

As per departmental data, 157 projects have been sanctioned in Central Kashmir and 134 in South Kashmir under the C&T sector. In addition, 17 new schemes in Central Kashmir and 16 in South Kashmir have been approved under NABARD to boost infrastructure development in the region.

Officials said the tendering process is underway, with construction set to begin by June 15. The entire macadamisation programme is expected to be completed within three months.

Choudhary emphasised timely completion and strict adherence to quality standards. He instructed engineers to maintain close inter-departmental coordination, adhere to project deadlines, and take strict action against underperforming contractors, including blacklisting if necessary.

The Deputy CM underlined that delivering durable and safe roads, bridges, and other infrastructure remains a key priority for the Omar Abdullah-led government, aimed at promoting inclusive and sustainable development across the Union Territory.