Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah made a heartfelt return to Ganderbal, his native district, on Tuesday, unleashing a development blitz with Rs 80 crore in project approvals and launches. The move comes at a time when the region eagerly awaits enhancements in basic services.
“This is my own turf, but assembly sessions and Jammu visits kept me away briefly,” Abdullah told locals during the ceremonies. “We’ve now inaugurated or laid foundations for Rs 80 crore projects that were pending.”
The lineup includes a state-of-the-art CT scan at Ganderbal District Hospital, boosting medical infrastructure; multiple water supply schemes targeting underserved areas; an integrated drainage system for better urban management; and a strategic bypass road to streamline traffic flow across the district.
Emphasizing swift action, he added, “These vital projects will see ground-level work commence without delay, delivering tangible benefits soon.”
Tackling the plight of Kashmiri students at Punjab University, the CM vowed to escalate the matter. “I’ll coordinate with Punjab’s leadership. They’ve stood by J&K historically, so this won’t stand. University talks will iron out issues for our students.”
On the Khelo India Winter Games success in Gulmarg, Abdullah was optimistic yet realistic: “Gulmarg remains the gold standard for winter events, but shifting climates mean we must innovate.”
Responding to critiques of Rahul Gandhi, he was forthright: “Rahul Gandhi has never shied from confronting the BJP – from rallies to debates. As opposition head, that’s his mandate. Expecting more?”
This proactive agenda positions Ganderbal for rapid upliftment, reflecting Abdullah’s dual focus on local governance and wider advocacy.