Excelsior Correspondent
NOWSHERA, Apr 20: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today inaugurated the upgraded road from NH-144A Bridge to Nowshera town and the 100-bedded Sub-District Hospital during his extensive tour of the area. The visit of the Chief Minister, along with his Cabinet colleagues, marked a major push towards strengthening connectivity and healthcare infrastructure in the region.
The Chief Minister received a rousing welcome on his arrival, with people lining both sides of the road and showering flower petals, jostling to see the Chief Minister, reflecting overwhelming public enthusiasm and support.
The upgraded road project, executed by the PWD (R&B) Department at a cost of Rs 7.99 crore, is expected to significantly improve connectivity, streamline traffic movement, and reduce travel time for commuters.
Later, the Chief Minister inaugurated the upgraded 100-bedded Sub-District Hospital, developed at an estimated cost of Rs 18.18 crore. The facility is equipped with modern healthcare infrastructure aimed at enhancing patient care and expanding access to quality medical services for the people of Nowshera and adjoining areas.
He was accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, Minister for Health and Medical Education Sakeena Itoo, and Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani.
During his visit, the Chief Minister took a detailed tour of the hospital and inspected key sections, including X-ray, ECG and ultrasound rooms, examination rooms, and the blood storage unit. He interacted with doctors, staff, and patients, enquiring about the availability and quality of healthcare services.
Addressing a massive public gathering, the Chief Minister emphasized that public office is a responsibility to serve the people and improve their quality of life.
“Positions of power are not meant for personal comfort but to bring relief to the people and make their lives easier. Our priority is to strengthen schools, hospitals, roads, and address unemployment and poverty,” he said.
Amid an enthusiastic turnout, he highlighted key initiatives aimed at boosting connectivity, healthcare, and overall socio-economic growth in Rajouri and adjoining areas. Interacting warmly with the public, he assured that the voices and aspirations of the people of the Pir Panjal region would continue to guide policy decisions and drive responsive governance on the ground.
He reiterated the Government’s commitment to regularizing daily wagers and ensuring justice for Anganwadi and ASHA workers through improved and increased wages and stipends. He also highlighted various welfare initiatives, including the provision of free gas cylinders to the poorest households, electricity support, and free bus travel for women.
Highlighting recent developmental achievements, he noted that projects like the Nowshera road and hospital, which had remained pending for years, were completed due to the focused efforts of the present government.
Earlier, on his way to Nowshera, the Chief Minister inspected the ongoing works on the Sungal Tunnel project and reviewed progress at the site. He was briefed by officials on excavation, structural works, and associated road development.
He was informed by the Project Sampark of the Border Roads Organisation that the total length of the tunnel is 2.79 km across the Kalidhar Range, with a reduction in travel time of 40-45 minutes, and that it is scheduled to be completed by June 30 this year.
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