Srinagar, April 9: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today announced plans to develop modern, well-planned housing colonies to decongest Srinagar city and provide dignified homes for underprivileged families, calling it both a responsibility and a duty of the government.

Speaking after inaugurating the Imam-ul-Asr Maulana Anwar Shah Kashmiri (RA) Community Hall at Umerhair, Buchpora in Hazratbal constituency, he outlined key developmental priorities including housing, healthcare, transport, and social welfare. The ₹3.17 crore multi-purpose hall will serve as an affordable venue for weddings, social functions, and community gatherings.
Omar Abdullah highlighted the challenges faced in congested old city areas, where multiple families often share single homes, stressing the need for new residential colonies with provisions for affordable housing. “Providing dignified housing to those without means is not just a responsibility—it is our duty,” he said.
The Chief Minister also emphasized strengthening healthcare by improving primary health centres, community health centres, and sub-district hospitals, and praised the success of free bus travel for women, noting increased female ridership as evidence of the initiative’s impact.
On welfare measures, he assured that promises like free LPG cylinders are being implemented, with six cylinders set to be provided to eligible families this year.
Congratulating MLA Salman Ali Sagar on completing the community hall, Omar Abdullah described it as a symbol of service, community spirit, and respect for the region’s intellectual and spiritual heritage. He directed the Srinagar Municipal Corporation to develop the surrounding area, including parking and landscaping, and proposed establishing a library dedicated in part to Maulana Anwar Shah Kashmiri (RA) to preserve his legacy.
The Chief Minister reaffirmed his commitment to addressing constituent concerns and empowering the youth through education and infrastructure development. The event was attended by MLA Khanyar Ali Mohammad Sagar, Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani, MP Rajya Sabha Gurwinder Singh Oberoi, MLA Lal Chowk Sheikh Ahsan Ahmed, Commissioner SMC Fazlul Haseeb, senior officers, party leaders, and a large public gathering.