Examiner Bureau | New Delhi:
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday reviewed plans to establish new J&K Houses in Dwarka in the national capital and in Navi Mumbai while also directing the revamp and expansion of existing government properties across several states and Union Territories.
The review meeting, attended by Resident Commissioner Ramesh Kumar and senior officials of the Resident Commission and concerned departments, assessed the progress of ongoing projects, budgetary requirements and future development proposals aimed at strengthening Jammu and Kashmir’s institutional infrastructure outside the Union Territory.
During the meeting, officials presented updates on government properties located in New Delhi, Chandigarh, Amritsar and Mumbai. Discussions also focused on expanding accommodation and improving facilities for officials, students, patients and visitors from Jammu and Kashmir.
Emphasising the importance of cultural representation, the Chief Minister directed that all upcoming and renovated J&K House properties should reflect the region’s unique architectural identity and heritage.
“Ensure that the new constructions and restructuring of existing properties carry a local touch of Jammu and Kashmir’s rich cultural legacy so that these government assets reflect a unique blend of heritage and modern functionality,” Abdullah said.
Officials informed the meeting that the government has initiated steps to establish a new J&K House in Dwarka, New Delhi, to enhance accommodation and administrative infrastructure for officials and visitors from the Union Territory. Similarly, a proposal is being pursued for the development of a J&K House at Kharghar in Navi Mumbai to strengthen the region’s presence in India’s financial capital.
The Chief Minister stressed that these properties should serve as symbols of pride and dignified representations of Jammu and Kashmir in different parts of the country.
“These institutions must make J&K proud of its properties and stand as dignified representations showcasing its cultural richness,” he said, while directing officials to ensure quality construction and timely completion of the projects.
While reviewing the proposed J&K House in Amritsar, Abdullah instructed authorities to take up the issue of land consolidation with the Punjab government, noting that the currently available land parcels are scattered and may not be suitable for a well-planned facility.
Officials also informed the meeting that a Detailed Project Report worth about ₹29.56 crore has been prepared for the Navi Mumbai project along with a capital expenditure proposal of nearly ₹30 crore.
The Chief Minister advised officers to study similar facilities established by other states and Union Territories to adopt best practices in infrastructure development, architecture and service delivery.
He also emphasised that efforts should be made to complete the projects within the shortest possible timeframe so that improved facilities are available to residents of Jammu and Kashmir travelling to major cities.
The meeting further discussed entrusting the construction and renovation works to agencies such as the National Buildings Construction Corporation and the Central Public Works Department for efficient execution.
Earlier, Resident Commissioner Ramesh Kumar presented a detailed briefing on the condition and status of government properties managed by the Resident Commission, including offices, staff quarters, guest houses and VIP accommodation facilities in different parts of the country.
