Kashmir Impulse Desk

Srinagar, April 28 

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday praised union minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan as a “true friend and well-wisher” of the region, pledging swift implementation of newly approved rural road projects worth Rs 8000 crore.

Speaking at an event in Srinagar where sanction letters were handed over under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)-IV, Abdullah said the scale of the approval was significant and would help transform connectivity in remote areas.

“You have repeatedly demonstrated that you are a true friend and well-wisher of the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” he said, addressing Chouhan, and thanked him for his continued support.

Abdullah said the allocation marked an “extraordinary” step, noting that road connectivity was critical for a region marked by difficult terrain, scattered populations and hilly landscapes.

He said earlier phases of the rural roads programme had already improved access to schools, healthcare and markets in remote areas, and that the latest phase would help connect remaining habitations.

The CM said his government would ensure effective use of central funds and expedite execution of the projects to deliver tangible benefits to rural communities, including farmers, horticulturists and women linked to self-help groups.

The remarks come after the federal government approved projects worth about Rs 8000 crore under the PMGSY-IV scheme, aimed at boosting infrastructure and economic activity in the region.