DH NEWS SERVICE
Kathua, Oct 29
In a major step towards improving rural connectivity, Col Mahan Singh (Retd.), DDC Chairman Kathua, today inaugurated the long-awaited blacktopping work of the 1.5 km Readi–Sanki link road under the C&T Road Plan for FY 2025–26, at an estimated cost of ?46 lakh.
The newly blacktopped road will greatly benefit the residents of Sanki, a remote and isolated village surrounded on both sides by the Ranjit Sagar Dam reservoir.
The villagers, who have long endured hardships due to poor connectivity, expressed deep gratitude and relief as the project finally took shape. Once home to more than 50 families, the village has witnessed significant migration to Kathua and Jammu over the years due to the lack of basic amenities, including a motorable road.
Elderly villagers Badri Nath and Chain Singh, both in their 80s, turned emotional as they witnessed the inauguration, calling it a “historic day” for their long-neglected village. The locals hailed Col Mahan Singh and the Modi Government for fulfilling their decades-old demand and bringing hope to the remote settlement.
Speaking to media persons, Col Mahan Singh (Retd.) expressed heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Dr. Jitendra Singh, MoS PMO, and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha for their continuous support in accelerating rural development. “It is indeed a pleasure for our generation to witness the unprecedented development taking place in our villages and towns under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Modi,” he said. He further emphasized the importance of maintaining quality standards and ensuring timely completion of ongoing works. Col Mahan also appreciated the Union Government and Dr. Jitendra Singh, MP Kathua-Udhampur, for releasing over Rs 200 crore for the permanent restoration of PMGSY roads damaged by recent rains and flash floods across the district. He urged the J&K UT Government to expedite the release of funds for restoring PWD roads and other public infrastructure. Prominent residents including Krishan Chand Goswami, Gaal Singh, and Pt. Lekh Raj were also present on the jubilant occasion.
