KATHUA: Deputy Commissioner Kathua, Rajesh Sharma, conducted an extensive tour of Basohli today to review developmental projects, civic infrastructure, and tourism initiatives. He was accompanied by ADC Basohli Pankaj Bhgotra, ADC Kathua Vishavjeet Singh, CPO Ranjit Thakur, XEN PWD Basohli Rajesh Kumar, and other district officials.
The Deputy Commissioner began his tour at the historic Mint site near Basohli Bus Stand, directing the Executive Engineer PWD to immediately commence development work sanctioned by the Archaeology Department at a cost of ₹82.34 lakh. The project includes constructing a protective wall and developing a park to preserve and showcase the heritage site.
He then visited Ward No. 11, a landslide-affected area, instructing the Executive Engineer PWD and ACD Kathua to prepare a convergence plan to implement necessary protection measures.
At Kulthi Morh, Rehan Panchayat, he inspected the Solid Waste Treatment Plant, where compost pits have been completed. He urged the PWD to expedite work on the approach road and chain-link fencing and emphasized community participation in maintaining cleanliness.
The Deputy Commissioner also reviewed the progress of residential huts being constructed by the Tourism Department at an estimated cost of ₹79 lakh, instructing the executing agency to complete the work by October. At the boating point near TRC, CEO BBDA informed him that 5,800 tourists had availed boating facilities at Ranjit Sagar Dam Lake till July 31, 2025.
During his visit to Purthu (Mini Goa), a popular tourist destination, he reviewed the pending riverfront development proposal from Atal Setu to Purthu, aimed at creating new amenities and facilities for visitors.
Later, he chaired a meeting of district officers at the ADC Office in Basohli, reviewing the progress of ongoing development works, with a focus on road conditions during the monsoon. He directed officers to prioritize public grievances and instructed Agriculture and allied departments to raise awareness of government schemes, promote new farming techniques, and encourage mixed farming for farmers’ financial upliftment.
The Deputy Commissioner also reviewed the status of Jal Jeevan Mission projects and healthcare facilities in Basohli, instructing officers to ensure timely delivery of services.
He interacted with DDC Chairman Col (Retd) Mahan Singh and MLA Basohli Darshan Singh, who welcomed him to the district and highlighted issues facing the hilly sub-division.
