Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology and Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, inaugurated and laid foundation stones for a series of road development projects in Mendhar totalling Rs 31.9 million (mn). The initiative is intended to strengthen the road network in border and rural areas of Jammu and Kashmir and to ensure last-mile connectivity. The works were described as a government priority for underserved settlements. Among the major works launched was construction of a road from Main Road NH-144A Kallar to Shadhara Sharief via Kamlo Gali, funded under the UT Capex Budget at Rs 10 million (mn). The upgradation of the Ari to Sarhuti road, taken up under the MLA Constituency Development Fund, has been completed at Rs five million (mn). Further strengthening of the Ari-Sarhuti stretch has been planned. The Minister laid the foundation stone for macadamisation of the Ari-Sarhuti stretch under the Potholes Repair Programme at Rs three million (mn) and announced its permanent restoration under the UT sector with an allocation of Rs four million (mn). Macadamisation of Main Road to Dara Top via Haji Pallu was taken up under the C and T Scheme at Rs seven point five million (mn). The upgradation of the road from Main Road to Shahstar Ziyarat executed under CTMV Gursai has been completed at Rs two point four million (mn). Rana stressed that connectivity in remote, border and underserved areas remains a top priority of the government led by Omar Abdullah and that no community should remain isolated owing to inadequate road infrastructure. He outlined a comprehensive and multi-pronged strategy that leverages constituency development funds, UT sector allocations and targeted repair programmes to deliver durable and sustainable roads. The programme is intended to unlock the socio-economic potential of villages, hamlets and border settlements by improving accessibility for services and markets. Implementation will focus on quality and sustainability so that newly connected communities can secure lasting benefits from enhanced mobility.