CM Omar Directs SDA to Accelerate Housing, Urban Infrastructure Projects in Srinagar | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday directed the Srinagar Development Authority (SDA) to expedite large-scale housing and urban infrastructure projects, emphasising planned, transparent and sustainable development to meet the growing needs of Srinagar city.

Chairing the 84th meeting of the Board of Directors of the SDA at the Civil Secretariat, the Chief Minister reviewed the progress of key urban development initiatives, including the proposed Satellite Township at Rakhi Gund Aksha in Bemina, housing schemes, commercial asset development and public infrastructure projects.

Abdullah stressed the need to create well-planned and liveable urban spaces, saying future housing projects must include adequate civic and social infrastructure such as schools, parks, playgrounds, shopping facilities and other essential amenities. He also underlined the importance of quality landscaping and attractive surroundings to enhance the city’s urban environment.

The Board reviewed the implementation status of decisions taken during its previous meeting and took stock of ongoing development works, land identification for public infrastructure projects, administrative reforms and the engagement of technical personnel by the Authority.

The Chief Minister directed that all projects be executed in a time-bound manner while adhering to planning norms and safeguarding public interest. He also called for strengthening institutional mechanisms and improving the delivery of civic and urban services.

During the meeting, the Board discussed measures to enhance the Authority’s institutional capacity, including the formulation of recruitment rules, employee welfare initiatives and improvements in planning and development processes.

The Board also reviewed proposals related to the revision and implementation of the Srinagar Master Plan, preparation of zonal development plans, management of commercial assets, development of public infrastructure and the Authority’s budget estimates.

Highlighting the need to address the city’s housing requirements, Abdullah urged the SDA to focus on large-scale residential projects and improve parking facilities in congested areas of Srinagar.

The Board further stressed the importance of planned development in the Batmaloo area and directed the Authority to make the Sangarmal Shopping Centre fully functional. It also approved steps for the development of vacant land parcels around the shopping complex through key infrastructure and commercial projects.

The meeting was attended by Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, senior administrative secretaries and other senior officials. SDA Vice Chairman Shabir Hussain Bhat presented the agenda before the Board.