MATHWAR, Aug 12: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Joint Secretary, Central Zone, M.K. Rana on Wednesday held a public meeting at Panchayat Golda in Block Mathwar, where local residents and members of the public raised a number of pressing issues affecting their daily lives and the overall development of the area.
Addressing the gathering, M.K. Rana emphasised the Omar Abdullah-led government’s focus on fast-tracking overall development and improving the quality of basic amenities, particularly water supply, electricity and road infrastructure across the Jammu region. He also stressed the importance of creating employment opportunities for youth and promoting the upliftment and empowerment of women.
He also criticised the previous BJP government for what he described as neglect of development in the Jammu region, particularly in the areas of roads, electricity, water supply and employment opportunities for youth. Rana cautioned the people against what he termed “false promises” and said that the ground reality should be judged by the actual work done for the welfare and development of the people.
During the meeting, residents highlighted the shortage of staff in government schools, stating that inadequate manpower is adversely affecting the quality of education and creating difficulties for both students and teaching staff. They urged the authorities to fill vacant posts and ensure adequate staffing in educational institutions.
The public also raised concerns over the lack of proper and regular water supply. Residents urged the concerned authorities to take immediate measures to ensure an adequate supply of safe drinking water to the affected areas.
Another major issue discussed was the shortage and poor condition of electricity poles and related infrastructure. Residents demanded the installation of necessary electrical infrastructure and uninterrupted power supply, particularly in areas facing difficulties due to inadequate facilities.
The participants further stressed the need to improve road connectivity, pointing out that several roads require urgent repair and upgradation. They said better roads are essential for the safe and smooth movement of residents, students and farmers and for the overall economic development of the area.
M.K. Rana gave a patient hearing to the issues raised by the people and assured them that their genuine concerns would be taken up with the concerned Ministers for appropriate action.