District Development Commissioner Doda, Harvinder Singh, presided over the Block Diwas Programme at Bari in Block Marmat, focusing on developmental issues and public grievances. The event saw significant participation from locals and public representatives, who raised concerns regarding road connectivity, water supply and healthcare facilities.
Key demands included school upgradation, provision of ambulance services, expansion of road networks under PMGSY and the timely completion of ongoing projects like the Goha-Marmat highway.
The DDC assured residents that their genuine demands would be addressed promptly. He directed the Chief Medical Officer Doda to ensure the deployment of doctors in the area and to organize vaccination drives. Additionally, he instructed the PWD (R&B) and PMGSY departments to expedite road construction, install crash barriers and assess the extension of road connectivity to remote villages. Addressing concerns over power outages, he confirmed the installation of new electricity poles under the RDSS scheme and urged the Power Development Department (PDD) to minimize power shutdowns.
He also emphasised the need to complete drainage systems along roads under construction and ensure the availability of snow-clearing machines during winter. Simultaneously, Block Diwas events were held at various locations, including Middle School Hanga in Bhaderwah, Panchayat Ghar Chounary in Gandoh, Panchayat Ghar Sharote in Thathri and Panchayat Ghar Bulanpur in Assar.
Each venue witnessed active participation, with residents advocating for improved educational infrastructure, better electricity connections and road repairs. In Assar, the need for solar lights in remote areas was highlighted, while Gandoh residents raised irrigation concerns.
Commending the officers for their engagement with the public, the DDC stressed the importance of transparency, accountability and proactive governance. He directed sectoral officers to follow up on pending issues and conduct thorough surveys for infrastructure development, reinforcing the administration's commitment to fostering trust and promoting sustainable development across Doda.