STATE TIMES NEWS
NEW DELHI: BJP Jammu and Kashmir President Sat Sharma along with MLA Akhnoor Mohan Lal today called on Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) PMO, Dr Jitendra Singh, and discussed several major developmental issues pertaining to Akhnoor Assembly and Chhamb Assembly Constituency. The meeting focused on crucial infrastructure needs, border-area connectivity gaps, agricultural concerns and long-pending public demands.
During the meeting, the BJP leaders prominently projected the urgent requirement of an Alternate Bridge from Gurah Brahmana to Gurah Pattan, stating that the existing bridge is under heavy traffic load and the alternate structure has become essential to streamline movement in the region. They added that owing to the sensitive geographical location, an additional bridge would also significantly support defence logistics, ensure uninterrupted connectivity and reduce bottlenecks for civilian commuters.
The delegation also emphasised the need for channelization of River Chenab, pointing out that thousands of kanals of fertile agricultural land had been eroded over the years, severely affecting farmer livelihoods. They said that proper channelization would help retrieve large tracts of washed-away land and safeguard the remaining area from further soil loss.
Another key issue placed before the Union Minister was the widening and upgradation of the Jourian-Pallanwala Road, which the leaders described as a vital link for several border villages. They stressed that its deteriorated condition demands immediate attention to ensure smooth and safe movement of residents.
Highlighting strategic connectivity concerns, the BJP leaders urged that the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) should take over Road No. 1 leading to Pargwal from the PWD, as its border significance requires faster execution and more dependable maintenance. They also underscored the importance of constructing multiple check dams across various nallahs and khads in the Akhnoor region to enhance water conservation, groundwater recharge and protection against erosion.
Sharma and Lal reiterated the long-pending demand for the Kandi Canal, stating that its implementation would greatly benefit the rain-fed agricultural pockets of both Akhnoor and Chhamb constituencies. The project, they said, is crucial for improving irrigation facilities and boosting crop productivity in the Kandi belt.
Dr Jitendra Singh gave a patient hearing and held detailed discussions on each issue, acknowledging their urgency and public relevance. He assured the delegation that he would personally take up all matters with the concerned Union Ministers and departments. He further informed that in the coming days, he along with Sat Sharma and Mohan Lal would meet the relevant ministries to accelerate approvals and expedite the progress of the highlighted projects.
Sat Sharma and Mohan Lal expressed optimism that with Dr Jitendra Singh’s intervention, the long-awaited development projects of the Akhnoor-Chhamb belt will move forward swiftly, bringing significant relief to the people.