Excelsior Correspondent
DODA, Dec 21: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Earth Sciences, MoS, PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr Jitendra Singh today said, the prestigious Chhatergala tunnel connecting Doda and Bhaderwah with Lakhanpur via Basohli-Bani will be a game changer in providing all-weather connectivity to the region and boosting tourism, revenue and employment opportunities for the local youth besides reducing the travel time between the two destinations to just 4 to 5 hours. The entire project may cost over Rs 17,000 cr with the Chhatergala tunnel alone costing Rs 4,000 cr and is envisaged to be a part of the ambitious ‘Viksit Bharat’ plan, he said.
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He was speaking during the District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee Meeting (DISHA) here today. The meeting focused on reviewing the progress of various centrally sponsored schemes and key infrastructure projects in the district.
Dr Jitendra Singh said the region which had remained untouched by development for the past many decades is now connected by a wide web of highways, improving connectivity in far-flung areas of district Doda.
He called for early completion of the important projects, including Khellani tunnel and Goha-Marmat Highway to further boost connectivity in the Chenab Valley region. He urged the authorities to accelerate the execution of these projects, without lapsing funds. The Union Minister instructed the officials to prioritize public participation in developmental initiatives in line with the spirit of Jan Bhagidari for their effective implementation.
Reaffirming the Government’s commitment to ensuring the district’s holistic development, the Union Minister stressed the importance of implementing newv benefit schemes, such as Ayushman Bharat +75 year citizens and PM Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana for household solar plants. He also encouraged officials to organize skill development programs to create job opportunities for unemployed youth and enhance sports activities in the district.
Dr Jitendra Singh proposed organizing another lavender festival in the district next year to promote its cultivation as well highlight the tourism potential of picturesque Bhaderwah, which he noted has gained wide recognition as a prominent tourist destination. He also called for organising workshops to enhance innovation strategies and improve the district’s agricultural practices.
During the meeting, Deputy Commissioner Harvinder Singh provided a comprehensive overview of the developmental activities, including the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), NABARD projects, and the PMGSY scheme. The meeting also addressed compensation issues for road construction under PMGSY and discussed challenges related to forest clearances for ongoing projects.
The meeting held in the DC Office Complex, was attended among others by MLA, Doda West, Shakti Raj Parihar, MLA, Bhaderwah, Dalip Parihar, DDC, Chairman, Dhananter Singh Kotwal.
Deputy Commissioner, Harvinder Singh, SSP, Sandeep Kumar Mehta, and senior officials from different departments were present.
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