Diplomat Correspondent
Udhampur, DD, Reaffirming his unwavering commitment to strengthening rural infrastructure and ensuring seamless connectivity in remote areas, Mr. Ranbir Singh Pathania, Hon’ble MLA, Udhampur East, today inaugurated key road projects on the National Highway to Khui Paddar (Upper Malhar) via Chalora. The much-awaited project, estimated to cost ₹1.17 crore, will provide metalled road access to over 1,000 inhabitants of the area—ushering in a new era of development and accessibility for this long-neglected belt.
Addressing a large gathering of locals who extended a warm welcome, Mr. Pathania underscored that road connectivity to far-flung hamlets is not merely about infrastructure—but a foundational pillar of inclusive development. “Robust road networks are the arteries of progress. Our vision is to make Udhampur a model district for voluble, all-weather connectivity, reaching the last man in the last village,” he said.
He further announced that the road link from the main highway to Khui Paddar will soon be transferred from the Rural Development Department to the Public Works Department (PWD), thereby ensuring timely macadamization and year-round accessibility.
In addition to road development, Mr. Pathania issued on-the-spot directions for the upgradation and installation of new transformers at Khalessa Morha of Jaganoo, to resolve local electricity issues. He also instructed the concerned departments to take immediate steps to ensure potable drinking water supply to every household, while calling for restoration of all defunct water lines and irrigation canals in a mission-mode.
Later in the day, Mr. Pathania chaired a watershed management review meeting at Mansar, which was attended by the District Officer of NABARD, Sister Jaya from the National Health Organization (NHO), and elected representatives of the Panchayat Committee. The deliberations centered on strategies for water conservation and sustainable irrigation. Reiterating the motto “Save Water, Save Life, Save Soil”, he appealed for collective and coordinated action to tackle the looming threat of water scarcity.
Prominent among those present on the occasion were Mr. Puran Chand (DDC Udhampur), Mr. Subash Sharma, Mr. Vikram Singh, Ms. Sunita Sharma, Mr. Surjit Singh, Mr. Chain Dehati, Aryan, Subash Sharma, and other prominent citizens of the area.
This series of interventions reflects Mr. Pathania’s larger vision of integrated rural development and a future-ready Udhampur that thrives on connectivity, sustainability, and empowerment.DD
