Terror attack shouldn’t derail development: CM

Recalling his recent meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday said the highest level in the Government of India wanted to see that Pahalgam attack does not derail the process of governance and development in J&K. “That is our responsibility that we will have to take care of,” he added.

Acknowledging the adverse impact of recent events on the tourism sector, the CM called for collective efforts to ensure a smooth Amarnath Yatra, without any inconvenience to the pilgrims. He emphasised that the civil administration had its own responsibilities, which the government would have to fulfil at any cost.

The CM made these remarks while chairing a high-level review meeting at the Civil Secretariat in Srinagar, marking the formal resumption of official work by Ministers and Administrative Secretaries in Srinagar, summer capital of J&K. Official work will be conducted from Srinagar for the next six months during the summer season.

Talking about the much-anticipated Rail-to-Kashmir project, the CM expressed hope that its inauguration — originally scheduled for April 19 but postponed due to inclement weather — would happen soon.

The CM emphasised the need to start development activities, implement budget announcements and provide efficient governance amid current challenges. “After six months, we are back to the Srinagar Civil Secretariat office. The environment in which we were hoping the offices would open, expecting normal business, did not happen. It has been seen that if situation remains conducive and peaceful, it improves the functioning of the government," CM said.

“However, we need to focus on things that are under our control and work to ease the difficulties faced by common people,” the CM said.

He directed officers to ensure that their efforts during this working season go beyond administrative offices. “We do not have to restrict our working to the Civil Secretariat but see implementation of projects on the ground,” he stated.

Deputy CM Surinder Kumar Choudhary, Ministers Sakeena Itoo, Javed Ahmed Rana, Javed Ahmed Dar and Satish Sharma attended the meeting. Advisor to the CM Nasir Aslam Wani, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary to CM Dheeraj Gupta, all administrative secretaries, Kashmir Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir IGP and other senior officers were also present.

J & K