Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU Aug 9: Expressing satisfaction over pace of progress on Raghunath Bazar Beautification Project, Working President National Conference and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday said that restoring pristine glory of this heritage market will go a long way in showcasing glorious ethos of Jammu to lakhs of pilgrims from various parts of the country.
Interacting with functionaries of the local Businessmen Association during his impromptu visit to the premier business hub this afternoon, the Chief Minister said the market has to flourish as a blend of traditional grandeur and modern facilities.
The Chief Minister was accompanied by Provincial president National Conference Devender Singh Rana.
“To achieve this objective, the beautification plan had been conceived and executed in conjunction with the business fraternity of the area”, he said and lauded the role of Raghunath Businessmen Association for being a major player in the implementation of Rs 6.67 crore project.
He said uniqueness of this heritage market is evident from the fact that despite new shopping complexes and magnificent malls coming up across the City, Raghunath Bazar remains the main attraction of incoming pilgrim tourists and the Jammu dwellers. “The Bazar is not just a business centre but it remains a symbol of Jammu’s glorious ethos and heritage”, he maintained.
The Chief Minister hoped the business fraternity will continue their glorious hospitality and work as true ambassadors of Jammu to send message of plural diversity and rich ethos of Jammu across the country.
Senior officers of various Government Departments briefed Chief Minister about salient features of the project. The project envisages installation of modular electric poles, traditional water points, upgradation of pavements, undertaking underground telephone and electricity cabling besides the make over of the market. Mr Omar was shown two electric poles and a water-point, ornamental work on which has been undertaken by the artisans from Rajasthan. The Bazar will have 36 such electric poles besides water points at shorter distances for the visiting public. So far, Rs 4 crore have been spent on these works undertaken by various departments with Tourism Department functioning as the nodal agency.
Responding to the demand of the President of RBA, the Chief Minister assured that he will examine the release of remaining funds earmarked for the project.
During his visit to the heritage market, the Chief Minister interacted with visiting pilgrim tourists also who were shopping in the market.
Those accompanying the Chief Minister also included President of Raghunath Bazar Businessmen Association Baldev Khullar, Chairman Jammu Heritage Society Om Prakash Mahajan, Vice President RBA Bhuveshawar Gandotra, M M Sharma, Amit Goyal, Ajesh Rohmetra, Jugal Mahajan, Sudershan and others.
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