Drass, Apr 9: Concerns over basic infrastructure and essential services came to the fore as residents of Matayen in Drass subdivision raised a series of civic and developmental issues during a public outreach programme held under the “Khidmat-e-Awaam” initiative on Wednesday.
The interaction, marked by active public participation, saw locals pressing for long-pending demands, including the construction of an irrigation canal and the establishment of a medical sub-centre in the area. The issues, residents said, continue to affect livelihoods and access to healthcare in this remote belt of Kargil district.
Organised by the district administration as part of a broader governance outreach, the programme sought to provide a direct interface between officials and the public. Held under the directions of the Chief Secretary of Ladakh, the initiative is being conducted across the district to improve service delivery and ensure administrative presence in far-flung regions.
The session was convened under the supervision of Sub Divisional Magistrate Vishal Atri, with officials from multiple line departments in attendance. Participants were encouraged to articulate their grievances, with department representatives responding on the spot and assuring that the matters raised would be taken up for further action.
Beyond grievance redressal, the programme also served as a platform for public awareness on government schemes and welfare measures. The Department of Sheep Husbandry, Drass, sensitised residents about livestock protection and rearing practices. The Child Development Project Officer (ICDS), Drass, highlighted the importance of hygiene and balanced nutrition for children. Officials from Jammu & Kashmir Bank conducted a financial literacy session, informing attendees about banking services and access to formal financial systems.
The administration reiterated its commitment to sustained public engagement through such weekly outreach efforts. The SDM directed all sectoral officers to ensure their presence at these programmes every Wednesday, with a focus on delivering services and addressing grievances at the grassroots level.
