CM Omar Abdullah Reviews Developmental Progress in Kulgam, Stresses Timely Project Completion and Winter Preparedness
KULGAM: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today chaired a comprehensive review meeting in District Kulgam to assess the implementation of the District CAPEX Budget 2025–26 and various Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS).
Emphasizing timely completion of projects, winter preparedness, and efficient fund utilization, the Chief Minister appreciated the district administration’s effective response during the recent floods and reviewed ongoing measures for infrastructure restoration and public service delivery.
He directed officers to ensure uninterrupted power and water supply during the upcoming winter months, expedite permanent restoration of damaged infrastructure, intensify field inspections, and strengthen inter-departmental coordination. He also instructed officials to prioritize the completion of all ongoing projects within set timelines for visible on-ground impact.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, Ministers Sakina Itoo, Javed Rana, Javid Dar, and Satish Sharma, Advisor to the CM Nasir Aslam Wani, DDC Chairperson Kulgam, MLAs M.Y. Tarigami and Pirzada Feroz Ahmed, Additional Chief Secretary to CM Dheeraj Gupta, Additional Chief Secretary R&B, Deputy Commissioner Kulgam Athar Amir Ul Shafi Khan, heads of departments, and district officers.
Reviewing winter preparedness, the Chief Minister underscored the need for adequate 4×4 ambulances in snow-prone areas to ensure uninterrupted emergency services. “We are coordinating with departments to ensure each district has sufficient 4×4 ambulances so that people do not face hardships during heavy snowfall,” he said, directing officials to ensure all mobility and safety arrangements are in place.
On the developmental front, Omar Abdullah noted a significant increase in both the number and scale of projects compared to the previous year. “Our achievement levels must improve further given the short working season. The next two months must be utilized efficiently to maximize expenditure and progress,” he urged.
Highlighting the importance of timely fund utilization under Centrally Sponsored Schemes, he instructed officers to ensure the first instalments are fully spent by December to prevent delays in subsequent fund releases. “Frequent reviews are essential to monitor progress and prevent work disruptions due to low expenditure levels,” he added.
During the meeting, the Chief Minister e-inaugurated several key urban infrastructure projects, including the Solid Waste Management & Material Recovery Facility at Lirrow, a Municipal Shopping Complex, and a Modern Abattoir, aimed at boosting civic amenities and commercial activity in the district.
Earlier, Omar Abdullah inspected departmental stalls showcasing government schemes and welfare initiatives. He interacted with officials and beneficiaries, appreciating their commitment to citizen-centric governance and effective public service delivery.
Local legislators and the DDC Chairperson raised various developmental concerns, to which the Chief Minister assured priority consideration for all genuine demands to accelerate Kulgam’s growth trajectory.
In his presentation, Deputy Commissioner Athar Amir Ul Shafi Khan provided a detailed overview of the district’s progress, achievements, and challenges for 2024–2026. He highlighted key focus areas such as post-flood infrastructure restoration, healthcare, agriculture, education, and rural-urban development.
Significant strides were reported under CAPEX investments, particularly in irrigation, education, health, and urban sectors, along with ongoing works on bridges, roads, and water supply schemes. Employment and housing gains were noted under MGNREGA and PMAY, while improvements in healthcare, school retention, horticulture, livestock, and fisheries were also highlighted.
The Deputy Commissioner outlined proactive winter preparedness while flagging challenges such as transformer shortages, staff vacancies, and delays in road restoration and industrial land allotment. He emphasized that integrated departmental coordination continues to drive resilient and inclusive development in Kulgam.
