Kashmir Impulse Desk

Pampore, May 1 

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday inaugurated 368 newly constructed residential quarters for government employees in Sempora near Pampore, saying employee welfare remained a key governance priority.

The housing project, developed by the Estates Department at a cost of about Rs 906.5 million, comprises 23 residential blocks with 2BHK and 3BHK units aimed at improving accommodation facilities for government employees in the Kashmir Valley.

The CM inspected the residential flats along with canteen and mess facilities and was briefed by officials about upcoming housing projects, according to an official statement.

The project comes amid the restoration of the annual “Darbar Move” practice by the government, under which government offices shift between Jammu and Srinagar, increasing the need for employee accommodation.

Officials said the new residential units were expected to help ease long-standing shortages faced by government employees, particularly those relocating between the two capitals.

Among those present at the inauguration were Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLA Pampore Hasnain Masoodi, Additional Chief Secretary Estates Shaleen Kabra and other senior officials.

Abdullah said the government was committed to expanding residential infrastructure for employees in a phased manner across Jammu and Kashmir.

“Strengthening employee welfare remains a key governance priority,” he said, adding that quality housing played an important role in improving productivity and morale among employees.

The CM also directed departments to ensure timely execution, proper utilisation and maintenance of public infrastructure projects.