Chief Secretary chairs meeting to review Housing Department’s development projects

Chief Secretary Atul Dulloo chaired a pivotal meeting today aimed at addressing the pressing issues concerning the Housing and Urban Development Department (H&UDD) in the Union Territory. Attended by key officials including the Commissioner Secretary of H&UDD, Commissioner Secretary of Tourism, and other Heads of Departments from Housing and Rural Development, the meeting focused on accelerating the pace of development projects and aligning them with modern standards of urban development.

Chief Secretary Dulloo emphasized that city infrastructure is a cornerstone of development, stressing the timely completion of utility and developmental projects to enhance mobility and city living. He underscored the need to adhere to contemporary urban development standards, ensuring safer, easier, and faster access for residents.

Directing the expedited completion of urban development projects, Chief Secretary Dulloo emphasized the government’s commitment to prioritize public welfare and ensure tangible benefits for the residents of Jammu and Kashmir.

Commissioner Secretary of H&UDD, Mandeep Kaur, briefed the gathering on a range of critical developments and upcoming initiatives geared towards transforming the urban landscape of the region. Discussions encompassed strategies to leverage land as a resource for urban development, streamline the process of obtaining building permissions, and promote sustainable land use.

Key topics included the status of water transport services on the river Jhelum in Srinagar, aimed at enhancing connectivity and providing eco-friendly transportation alternatives, particularly for tourists. Updates on the Jammu Metropolitan Region Development Authority (JMRDA) and the Srinagar Metropolitan Region Development Authority (SMRDA) were also deliberated, focusing on comprehensive urban planning and development.

The meeting also reviewed the progress of the newly constructed multi-tier parking facility at the Bus Stand in Jammu, emphasizing its optimal utilization to ease congestion, generate employment, and boost government revenue.

Addressing the need for modern transportation facilities, discussions revolved around the utilization of e-buses recently introduced in both cities to cater to the growing population and demand for public transportation.

Furthermore, the meeting assessed the progress of crucial sewerage projects across the UT, highlighting efforts to enhance sanitation and wastewater management.

Overall, the meeting underscored the government’s commitment to fostering sustainable urban growth and development, ensuring that initiatives are aligned with the needs and aspirations of citizens in the Union Territory.