Jammu Tawi, Nov 11: Directing officials to execute projects on fast-track basis, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday called for closer monitoring of projects being executed under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) and timely release of development funds.
Chairing a comprehensive review meeting here to assess the developmental scenario of Udhampur District, CM Omar directed officials to accelerate project execution and ensure that the benefits of government schemes reach people in a timely manner.
The Chief Minister directed all departments to focus on improving physical progress and ensuring optimal financial utilisation. He stressed that developmental projects must move forward in a coordinated and time-bound manner, with accountability at every level.
Calling for closer monitoring of projects being executed under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI), the Chief Minister directed that their progress be reviewed fortnightly to identify bottlenecks, address implementation-related issues and ensure timely completion. He emphasised the need to maximise utilisation of allocated funds and ensure that the district derives full benefit from the available financial assistance.
The Chief Minister also stressed the timely release of funds under various development and relief schemes, particularly the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), observing that delays in fund disbursement should not impede public works or deprive beneficiaries of timely assistance.
On issues concerning project implementation, CM Omar directed district authorities to expedite pending forest clearances in accordance with prescribed rules and procedures, while ensuring close coordination with the concerned departments to avoid unnecessary delays in developmental works.
During the visit, the Chief Minister e-inaugurated four developmental projects of the Rural Development Department (RDD), completed at a cumulative cost of ₹5.06 crore, strengthening grassroots development infrastructure in the district.
The inaugurated projects included the District Development Council (DDC) Building at Udhampur, constructed at a cost of ₹235.76 lakh; Block Development Council (BDC) Building at Parlidhar, costing ₹80.17 lakh; BDC Building at Jaganoo, completed at a cost of ₹84.41 lakh; and BDC Building at Sewna, constructed at a cost of ₹106.32 lakh.
The projects have been executed under the CAPEX budget and cater to Udhampur East, Ramnagar and Chenani constituencies.