Banihal, July 6: In a major push towards urban development and public infrastructure, MLA Banihal Sajjad Shaheen on Sunday laid the foundation stone for the ₹1 crore Central Park Beautification Project at Banihal, aimed at transforming the park into a modern recreational space for residents.
The project will include landscaped green areas, walking tracks, seating facilities, children’s play zones, decorative lighting, and other civic amenities to provide a vibrant and attractive public space.
Addressing the gathering, Shaheen said the government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is committed to balanced and inclusive development across Jammu and Kashmir, adding that the Banihal-Gool constituency is witnessing an unprecedented pace of development after years of neglect.
He said several infrastructure projects are progressing across the constituency with a focus on improving road connectivity, upgrading education and healthcare facilities, strengthening power infrastructure, promoting tourism and sports, and generating sustainable economic growth.
The MLA highlighted that new road projects are being executed to improve connectivity in remote areas, while educational institutions are being upgraded to provide better learning facilities. He added that healthcare services are also being strengthened through the upgradation of hospitals and health institutions.
Speaking on the power sector, Shaheen said receiving stations are being modernized and augmented to improve electricity supply, while proposed hydropower projects are expected to boost energy generation, create employment opportunities, and strengthen the local economy.
Emphasising tourism development, he said the constituency’s vast tourism potential will be harnessed through the development of new destinations, improved tourism infrastructure, and promotion of eco-tourism. He also said sports infrastructure is being enhanced to provide better facilities for youth.
Shaheen further announced that all major towns in the Banihal-Gool constituency will undergo phased beautification and facelift programmes, including improved streetscapes, drainage systems, pedestrian facilities, landscaping, lighting, and other civic amenities.
“The beautification of Central Park Banihal is only the beginning of our larger vision for urban renewal. Our objective is to create modern public spaces while ensuring that every village and town benefits from the ongoing development process,” he said.
The MLA expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for supporting the developmental aspirations of the people of Banihal-Gool and reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring holistic, equitable, and sustainable development across the constituency.
The foundation stone laying ceremony was attended by public representatives, government officials, party functionaries, prominent citizens, and a large number of local residents.(Agencies)
