‘Gateway of Kashmir’ set for modern makeover, Govt informs house

Srinagar : The Jammu and Kashmir Government on Friday said that Qazigund town, popularly known as the “Gateway of Kashmir”, is being developed on modern and sustainable lines under a phased development plan.

Replying to a question by MLA Abdul Majeed Bhat in the Assembly, the Housing and Urban Development Department, as per the news agency, said that Qazigund holds strategic geographical importance as the southern entry point to the Kashmir Valley and serves as a major road and rail transit hub.

The government informed the House that the town has been brought under the urban planning framework and various development activities are being carried out through the concerned Urban Local Body and line departments.

“The contours of the development plan include strengthening and widening of roads and streets, improvement of drainage and footpaths, augmentation of water supply schemes, development of sewerage and sanitation facilities and implementation of solid waste management systems,” the reply reads.

It added that public amenities, civic infrastructure, and urban services are being upgraded, while beautification and landscaping works are also underway in view of Qazigund’s status as the gateway town of the Valley.

“The works are being executed or proposed under various Central and Union Territory schemes, subject to approved norms, technical feasibility and availability of funds,” the department said.

The government added that the development is being undertaken in a phased manner to ensure balanced growth, environmental sustainability and improved quality of life for residents, besides catering to the needs of commuters and tourists entering the Valley.—(KNO)