*MLA lays foundation stones of two roads
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Dec 18: A historic day unfolded for thousands of residents of the remote Dessa area in Doda district as MLA Doda West Shakti Raj Parihar laid the foundation stones of two long-awaited road projects today, finally bringing the hope of road connectivity to villages that have remained cut off since Independence.
Despite being located just about 40 kilometres from the Doda district headquarters, several hamlets of the Dessa area had no road connectivity for decades. The lack of basic infrastructure forced many residents to migrate to cities and towns in search of better livelihoods, while those unable to do so due to financial constraints continued to live in isolation.
The absence of roads proved most challenging during harsh winters and medical emergencies. In critical situations, villagers were compelled to carry patients on makeshift stretchers across difficult terrain for several kilometres to reach the nearest motorable road. This exhausting and risky practice has, in the past, resulted in the loss of precious lives. However, after years of hardship, the launch of these projects has brought renewed hope to the region.
MLA Shakti Raj Parihar today laid the foundation stones for two major road projects under the 4th Phase of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), marking a significant step toward strengthening rural connectivity and infrastructure development in Doda West.
The first project, the Manjmi to Shinkhly Road (Dessa Mandal), will be constructed over a length of 13.4 kilometres at an estimated cost of Rs 34 crore. Upon completion, the road will provide vital access to remote and hilly villages, ensuring smoother and safer transportation.
The second project, the Manjmi to Laloor Road, spans 6.5 kilometres and is being developed at a cost of Rs 9 crore. The road is expected to significantly reduce travel time and enhance connectivity for several villages, thereby boosting economic and social activities.
Addressing the gathering, MLA Shakti Raj Parihar stated that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister (PMO) Dr Jitendra Singh, the Government is committed to providing road connectivity up to the last village. He said that robust road infrastructure is fundamental to rural development and reaffirmed his resolve to ensure all-weather connectivity to the far-flung areas of Doda West. He emphasized that projects under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana are playing a transformative role in bridging developmental gaps and significantly improving the quality of life of the people.
Senior officials, public representatives and a large number of local residents were present on the occasion and welcomed the initiation of these important projects. The laying of the foundation stones for the roads reflects the Government’s continued focus on inclusive development and infrastructure-led growth in Doda West.
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