Jammu, June 22: The long-pending Mini Secretariat project in Rajouri, aimed at creating a centralized administrative hub for improved governance and public service delivery, continues to remain stalled more than a decade after its sanction due to ongoing political and bureaucratic disputes.
Approved in 2013 at an estimated cost of Rs 37.69 crore, the project was intended to house key district-level offices under one roof to ensure smoother coordination and better access to government services. However, despite initial expectations, only around 10 percent of the work has been completed, with approximately Rs 1.87 crore spent out of Rs 7.20 crore released, according to official sources.
The construction work came to a halt in 2015 following disputes over land selection, administrative approvals, and inter-departmental communication gaps. The structure was initially planned on land belonging to the District Institute of Education and Training (DIET), but disagreements over the site led to prolonged uncertainty and stoppage of work.
The partially constructed building now stands abandoned, symbolizing delayed governance and wasted public resources. Engineers have warned that continued neglect may further deteriorate the existing structure and increase future reconstruction costs.
Citizens have expressed concern over the inconvenience caused due to the absence of a centralized administrative complex, forcing residents—especially those from remote areas—to travel across multiple offices for basic services. Senior citizens, women, and persons with disabilities are reported to be the most affected.
Meanwhile, neighbouring districts such as Poonch and Reasi have already operationalized similar Mini Secretariat complexes, highlighting the delay in Rajouri.
Civil society groups have suggested developing the project at the existing Deputy Commissioner’s office complex, citing its central location and availability of adequate land. A proposal for a redesigned multi-storey complex with parking facilities and residential quarters is reportedly under consideration, with a Detailed Project Report (DPR) being prepared.
Officials, however, say the project’s future now depends on higher-level administrative and cabinet decisions. Rajouri Deputy Commissioner Abhishek Sharma stated that earlier land issues and lack of transfer approvals led to the project’s stagnation, adding that further action can only be taken upon directives from higher authorities.
Chief Engineer, PWD (R&B) Pir Panjal Zone P.K. Phonsa also noted that work had been halted due to land-related controversies and would resume once official approvals and funding are restored.
