Kulgam, Jan 21: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education Sakeena Itoo, today visited Kulgam district and laid the foundation stone of Water Supply Scheme (WSS) at Herpora Banimullah here with an aim to ensure availability of safe and reliable potable drinking water to the local population.

The project being executed at an estimated cost of Rs. 2.74 crore under the UT Capex budget, once completed, is expected to provide safe and adequate potable water to a large number of households, addressing a long-standing demand of the local population.
After the foundation stone laying ceremony, the Minister addressed a public gathering, where she reiterated the government’s commitment to inclusive and balanced development. She emphasized that developmental projects are being implemented with a focus on transparency, quality, and timely completion to ensure maximum public benefit. “Access to clean drinking water is a basic necessity and a top priority of the government, especially in rural and far-flung areas”, Minister Sakeena stated.
On the occasion, the Minister also took stock of various developmental issues affecting the area, including water supply, healthcare facilities, education, road connectivity, and social welfare schemes. She assured the people that their genuine concerns would be addressed on priority and conveyed that the government is working tirelessly to improve basic amenities and living standards.
During the interaction with the public delegations and individuals of the area, they raised several grievances and demands, ranging from infrastructure development to welfare-related issues.
The Minister listened patiently to the issues highlighted by the residents and directed the concerned officers present on the spot to take immediate steps for redressal wherever feasible, while ensuring follow-up action on other matters.
Highlighting the importance of public participation, the Minister said that community involvement and feedback play a crucial role in effective governance. She underlined that the government is committed to strengthening basic infrastructure, particularly drinking water supply, to improve the quality of life of people in rural and remote areas.
Senior officers of the district administration, officials from Jal Shakti Department, local representatives, and a large number of locals were present on the occasion.