Mendhar (J&K), Sep 15 (KNS): Jammu and Kashmir Minister Javed Ahmed Rana on Monday laid the foundation stones of a series of development projects worth around Rs 64.69 crore in Balakote area of Poonch district, officials said.

The projects are focused on improving road connectivity, healthcare infrastructure and drinking water facilities, particularly in remote and border areas.

Rana laid the foundation stones for five road projects under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), with a combined estimated cost of Rs 55.09 crore.

The projects include Kanti Gala-Dhratti Road, Balakote Behrote-Dullian Sandote Road, Sanghiote-Hattain Ferozalan Road, Basooni Behruti-Behroti Lower Road and Basooni Hansal-Khana Goda Gopal Road.

The minister also laid the foundation stone for construction of two 30-bedded wards at Primary Health Centre Dhargloon under District CAPEX at an estimated cost of Rs 74.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel95 lakh.

Four water supply schemes under UT CAPEX, involving a combined cost of Rs 8.60 crore, were also taken up. These include WSS Keri Kandi Kangra, WSS Prawa Dharati Panjani Phase-II, WSS Kund Manjhari and WSS Balakote Sandote.

Speaking on the occasion, Rana said the government was committed to balanced and equitable development, with special focus on remote, hilly and border areas.

He said better roads, healthcare facilities and reliable drinking water supply were essential for improving the quality of life of people.

Rana directed the concerned departments to ensure timely completion of the projects while maintaining quality and transparency in execution.

Later, the minister held a public outreach programme at Balakote and listened to the issues and demands raised by local residents. He directed officials to ensure prompt redressal of genuine public grievances.(KNS)