MLA Banihal kickstarts macadamisation of Neel–Gagoni–Chamalwas road

Banihal, Sep 21: National Conference leader and MLA Banihal Sajjad Shaheen kick-started macadamisation works on the Neel–Gagoni road and Chamalwas-Neel road, fulfilling a long-standing demand of the local population.

The project, once completed, will significantly improve mobility for residents of the Neel area, ease access to healthcare and educational institutions, and facilitate trade by providing smoother connectivity to markets.

Shaheen said the initiative is part of a broader development roadmap for the constituency. “Banihal–Gool will emerge as a benchmark of development. Along with roads, equal emphasis is being laid on upgrading educational infrastructure, strengthening healthcare, improving power supply, developing hydro-power projects, and promoting sports and tourism. These sectors are vital to creating opportunities and ensuring holistic progress for our people,” he stated.

Shaheen pointed out that major works are underway across the constituency. Several rural and link roads have been sanctioned for blacktopping to improve connectivity between villages, while proposals for new bridges are under active consideration. In the education sector, a number of school buildings are being upgraded with better classrooms, laboratories and libraries to provide improved learning facilities for children in remote areas. On the healthcare front, steps have been initiated to strengthen the Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Banihal along with Primary Health Centres (PHCs) in Khari, Ukhral and Ramsoo. Additional staff, diagnostic facilities, and critical equipment are being provided to improve patient care.

The power sector has also witnessed progress, with several villages connected to the grid under rural electrification programmes, along with augmentation of receiving stations and transformers to ensure uninterrupted supply. Hydropower projects in the constituency are being prioritized to harness the region’s natural potential, generate employment, and strengthen the local economy.

Shaheen further said that the government has cleared sports infrastructure projects, including the development of playfields and indoor stadiums, to channel youth energy towards constructive activities. Tourism projects are also being pushed forward to showcase Banihal’s scenic beauty, rich culture, and adventure potential, which would attract visitors and boost the local economy. Locals of Neel expressed gratitude over the commencement of the works.