New Delhi
Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Ministry of Earth Sciences, Minister of State (Independent Charge) Ministry of Science and Technology, MoS PMO and Minister of State Ministry of Personnel and Public Grievances Dr Jitendra Singh reviewed a record 68 roads completed under Pradhan Mantri Gram SadakYojana (PMGSY) at Kathua in Jammu, and deferred the formal inauguration due to State mourning observed as a mark of respect to passing away of UAE President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al-Nahyan. Dr Jitendra Singh informed that built at a cost of over Rs 547 crore, all-weather roads measuring up to 526 kilometres is likely to benefit a population of over one lakh 20,000 people, most of them living in far-flung hilly areas. He said, despite serious challenges posed by the Covid19 pandemic, barring few all the projects were completed within stipulated timeframe. He emphasised that despite challenges posed by pandemic, the country had not compromised with the pace of development and particularly the UT of Jammu and Kashmir.
He said, roads are lifeline of a developing nation which will bring benefits in various sectors like education, health, marketing of agricultural produce and will bring many social benefits as well.
The Minister also reviewed the completion work of 22 bridges constructed at a cost of ₹ 29.50 crores and the same will also be dedicated to the people soon.
Dr Jitendra Singh said in the last 7-8 years of the Modi government, the work culture in the country has undergone a sea change and projects are now being cleared on need-based requirements, rather than on any other considerations. He emphasised that in sanctioning of new road projects, the priority is given to views of Sarpanches and othet local elected representatives rather than to request made by local MPs or MLAs.
