Handwara: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Thursday conducted an extensive tour of Handwara in Kupwara district to review developmental works, inspect public facilities, and hold a series of public outreach programmes across the region.
The Deputy Chief Minister was accompanied by Member of Parliament Chowdhury Mohammad Ramzan and MLA Uri Dr. Sajjad Shafi.
During the visit, the Deputy Chief Minister inaugurated the long-awaited 110-metre Drugmulla–Hatmulla Bridge over Nallah Apurpur. Addressing the gathering on the occasion, he said the bridge would significantly improve connectivity, mobility, and transportation facilities for residents of Drugmulla and adjoining areas.
He stated that the bridge project had remained pending for several years but was completed within two years by the present government. “The bridge will improve access to essential services and create better opportunities for the local population,” he said.
The Deputy Chief Minister also visited the Bus Stand and Main Market in Handwara, where he interacted with transporters and traders’ associations. He assured them that the government remains committed to the welfare of traders and transporters and that all genuine issues would be addressed on priority.
Highlighting the government’s development agenda for Handwara, he said several long-pending projects are being taken up on a fast-track basis. He informed that five important roads under PMGSY have already been approved for Handwara and that work on these projects will commence soon.
During the tour, the Deputy Chief Minister directed the concerned authorities to identify suitable land for the construction of a Labour Sarai facility in Handwara to facilitate workers and commuters.
He also reviewed ongoing macadamization works and other developmental projects and instructed officials to ensure quality standards and timely completion of all works.
As part of the day-long visit, the Deputy Chief Minister held public outreach programmes at Rajwar Bungus and several other locations, where he interacted with public delegations and reiterated the government’s commitment to inclusive development, better public services, and responsive governance across Kupwara district.
While addressing a gathering at Rajwar Bungus, he described the area as a region blessed with immense natural beauty and tourism potential. He emphasized that the government is committed to the welfare and upliftment of the local population through improved infrastructure, enhanced public services, and sustainable development initiatives.
Later, the Deputy Chief Minister visited Government Medical College (GMC) Handwara to assess healthcare facilities being provided to the public. During the inspection, he held detailed discussions with the Principal, doctors, and other staff members regarding infrastructure, the availability of medical equipment, and other essential facilities. He stressed the need to strengthen healthcare services and ensure quality patient care.
The Deputy Chief Minister also visited the residence of MP Er. Sheikh Abdul Rashid and MLA Sheikh Khurshied at Mawar, Langate, to offer condolences on the demise of their father and expressed sympathies with the bereaved family.
Later, he inspected the ongoing construction work of the Rs 12.5 crore, 3×18-metre span Bakhiaker Bridge project in Handwara and directed officials to ensure completion of the project within the next three months to further improve connectivity and public convenience in the area.
Senior officers from PMGSY, R&B, Mining, DICQ, Labour and Employment departments, besides district administration officials, accompanied the Deputy Chief Minister during the tour.
