Ganderbal, Jan 25: The construction of Satro fencing in the Sonamarg area of Ganderbal district, approved under the Capex Budget 2025–26 at an estimated cost of Rs 3.78 crore, has not commenced so far, triggering public concern over a possible lapse of funds by the end of the financial year.
According to official sources, the project was sanctioned by the government to ensure environmental protection and preservation of Sonamarg’s fragile ecology. Following the approval, the Sonamarg Development Authority completed all required formalities and released Rs 1.41 crore to the Roads and Buildings Department to facilitate early execution of the work.
However, despite the availability of funds, the project has remained stalled. Sources within the Sonamarg Development Authority said that officers of the R&B Department were informed repeatedly to initiate the work, but no concrete steps were taken for reasons that remain unclear.
Inhabitants of the area expressed apprehension that if work does not begin soon, the allocated funds may lapse in March. They said the Satro fencing project is the largest developmental initiative planned for Sonamarg in 2025 and its execution would not only safeguard the environment but also enhance the natural landscape of the tourist destination.
Public voices said prolonged delay reflects administrative inertia and could undermine the purpose of approving the project under the Capex framework. They stressed that timely execution is crucial, particularly in ecologically sensitive zones like Sonamarg.
Locals have appealed to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, and District Development Commissioner Ganderbal Jatin Kishore to personally intervene and ensure that work on the project begins without further delay. [KNT]
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