DEC 18: In a significant push towards strengthening rural infrastructure and improving public connectivity, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary today inaugurated multiple road and bridge development projects worth ₹10.27 crore in the Bhalwal area of Jammu district. The projects include construction and upgradation of key link roads along with a double-lane bridge, aimed at easing transportation, fulfilling long-pending public demands and boosting local livelihoods.
Addressing local residents and officials during the inauguration, the Deputy Chief Minister said that robust infrastructure is the backbone of inclusive development and a key driver of economic growth. He emphasized that improved road connectivity not only reduces travel time but also enhances access to essential services such as healthcare, education and markets, particularly for rural and semi-urban populations.
The inaugurated projects are expected to significantly improve mobility for residents of Bhalwal and surrounding villages, which have long faced challenges due to inadequate road networks and poor bridge connectivity. The newly constructed link roads will provide smoother and safer travel, while the double-lane bridge is expected to decongest traffic and ensure uninterrupted movement, especially during adverse weather conditions.
Highlighting the importance of responsive governance, the Deputy Chief Minister said that these projects reflect the government’s commitment to addressing long-pending public demands in a time-bound and transparent manner. He noted that development initiatives are being planned and executed based on ground-level needs and public feedback to ensure maximum benefit to the people.
Surinder Choudhary said that infrastructure development plays a crucial role in strengthening rural economies. Better roads and bridges facilitate the movement of agricultural produce, improve market access for farmers and small traders, and open up new livelihood opportunities. He added that the projects would also support local employment during construction and generate long-term economic activity in the region.
The Deputy Chief Minister stressed that the government is focusing on balanced regional development, ensuring that rural and border areas receive adequate attention alongside urban centres. He said that bridging infrastructural gaps is essential for achieving equitable growth and social inclusion.
He further reiterated the government’s commitment to good governance, transparency and quality execution of works. He directed the concerned departments to ensure that all projects adhere to prescribed quality standards and are completed within stipulated timelines. Regular monitoring and accountability mechanisms, he said, are being strengthened to prevent delays and cost overruns.
Local residents welcomed the inauguration and expressed satisfaction over the fulfilment of long-standing demands related to road and bridge connectivity. Many highlighted that the improved infrastructure would ease daily commuting, reduce vehicle maintenance costs and enhance overall quality of life.
Officials present on the occasion briefed the Deputy Chief Minister about the scope and specifications of the projects, including road length, structural features of the bridge and safety provisions. They assured that the works have been designed keeping in mind future traffic requirements and durability.
The Deputy Chief Minister also interacted with local representatives and community members, assuring them that the government remains committed to accelerating development works across Jammu and Kashmir. He said that infrastructure-led growth is central to the vision of building a prosperous and self-reliant Union Territory.
The inauguration of these projects marks another step towards strengthening rural development, public welfare and connectivity in the Jammu region, reinforcing the government’s resolve to deliver tangible development outcomes at the grassroots level.
