GOOL, Nov 11: In a major push towards strengthening road connectivity in the remote and far-flung areas of Banihal–Gool Assembly Constituency, MLA Banihal Sajjad Shaheen today laid the foundation stones of two major road projects in Gool Sub-Division, involving a combined estimated cost of approximately Rs 35 crore.
The two projects include construction and maintenance of the Kalimasta–Astanmarg road via High School Gagra in Block Gund Dharam, at an estimated cost of Rs 24.50 crore, and the road from near High School Dachan to Bass in Block Gool, costing Rs 10.46 crore.
The projects are expected to provide much-needed relief to residents of these geographically challenging areas, who have long faced difficulties due to inadequate road connectivity. Upon completion, the roads will improve accessibility, facilitate transportation of people and essential commodities and provide better access to educational institutions, healthcare facilities and other basic services.
Speaking on the occasion, Shaheen said that road connectivity is not merely about constructing roads but about connecting people with opportunities, essential services and the mainstream of development. He said that improving infrastructure in remote and mountainous habitations has remained one of his foremost priorities since assuming office.
Referring to the developmental initiatives undertaken during the last two years, the MLA said that sustained efforts have been made to accelerate infrastructure development across Banihal–Gool, particularly in areas which had remained neglected for decades.
He said that nearly 52 new road projects and close to two dozen bridges have been sanctioned during the last one-and-a-half years, representing a significant intervention towards addressing the long-pending connectivity requirements of the constituency. Several road projects have also been taken up for execution, while a number of bridges have been sanctioned under different development programmes.
He said that important road projects have been initiated across different parts of the constituency, including the Nachlana–Talab road, involving an estimated cost of ₹7.33 crore, besides several other road projects in Banihal, Gool, Khari, Pogal and adjoining areas. Foundation stones have also been laid for major road works and bridge projects to improve connectivity between remote habitations.
Highlighting the initiatives in the education sector, Shaheen said that considerable attention has been given to strengthening school infrastructure. Around 52 Higher Secondary and High Schools across the constituency have been provided with digital smart boards to improve teaching and learning facilities. Besides, 36 additional developmental works, involving an estimated expenditure of Rs 7.50 crore under CAPEX 2026–27 and the CAS component, have recently been approved for the upgradation of school infrastructure. These include new school buildings, additional classrooms, office accommodation, toilet complexes and boundary walls.
He said that the approval of these works reflects the government’s commitment to improving educational infrastructure, particularly in rural and far-flung areas. He also referred to the historic initiative for establishing a University Campus in District Ramban, which will create greater opportunities for students from the district.
On the healthcare front, the MLA said that efforts are underway to strengthen existing health institutions and improve healthcare delivery. These include infrastructure improvements at SDH Banihal and other health facilities, the foundation laying of a new PHC building at Sangaldan involving an estimated cost of Rs 2.50 crore, and the introduction of a Rs 52 lakh Mobile Medical Unit to improve healthcare outreach in underserved areas. He said that further improvements in healthcare infrastructure, including enhanced diagnostic facilities and dialysis services, remain among his priorities.
Regarding the power sector, Shaheen said that augmentation of the Banihal Receiving Station from 6.3 MVA to 10.6 MVA and Sangaldan Receiving Station from 3.15 MVA to 6.3 MVA has significantly strengthened the power distribution infrastructure. The augmentation of the Khari Receiving Station from 3.15 MVA to 6.3 MVA is also being pursued. He said that additional measures are being taken to improve electricity supply and address the recurring power-related problems faced by consumers.
The MLA further highlighted initiatives in tourism and public infrastructure, stating that concerted efforts are being made to develop the untapped tourism potential of Banihal–Gool. Foundation stones have been laid for two eco-parks at Narsingha and Dungali in Gool, involving a combined cost of Rs 70 lakh. Development and beautification works at Goda Gali Park, estimated at around Rs 1.25 crore, are also underway, while work has been taken up at Dubawn Park in Banihal. Other tourism-related initiatives include the development of Tatapani, besides proposals for parks and recreational facilities at different locations across the constituency.
He said that development of tourist destinations, including natural springs, parks and scenic locations, would not only improve public amenities but also create employment opportunities and provide a boost to the local economy.
Referring to urban development, Shaheen said that tenders have been floated for 56 development works involving approximately Rs 1.95 crore in Municipal Committee Banihal, covering all seven municipal wards. These include important public utility and beautification projects, such as a double-storey public toilet complex and the development and beautification of Shafapani Spring.
He reiterated that his approach to development is based on equitable distribution of resources and ensuring that remote habitations receive due attention. He said that efforts are being made to take development beyond major towns and extend essential infrastructure to every block, tehsil and village of the constituency.
Shaheen also urged the executing agencies to maintain strict quality standards and ensure timely completion of all ongoing projects, adding that public money must translate into tangible benefits for the people.
The MLA expressed his gratitude to Hon’ble Chief Minister Jenab Omar Abdullah Sahib for his continued support and cooperation in addressing the developmental requirements of Banihal–Gool. He also acknowledged the support of the concerned ministers, departments and officers in facilitating the sanctioning and implementation of various development projects.
Former DDC Chairperson Dr. Shamshada Shan, former DDC Councillor Sakhi Mohammad Choudhary, former BDC Chairperson Shakeela Begum, Zonal Vice President Gulzar Ahmed Shan, Block Presidents Ahmadullah Naik, Jan Mohammad Chandail, Mohd Afzal Giri, Gulzar Manhas, Choudhary Tahir and several other party functionaries, local representatives and residents were present on the occasion.