Srinagar, Jan 29: The government has identified the individuals responsible for delay in snow clearance during the first spell of snowfall and they are all set to face strict disciplinary action.
Speaking to reporters after a review meeting, Farooq Ahmed Shah, MLA Gulmarg said, “Nobody will be allowed to sabotage government works. Yes, there were challenges in the first phase of snowfall and lapses occurred, however, the government has taken serious note of that”.
Shah added that in the second spell, the administration swung into early action to prevent repeats.
He said that lapses, ranging from inadequate response to non-performance by contractors have been traced, with those accountable, including errant contractors, now identified. “Action as per rules will be taken against them,” the MLA stated.
He, meanwhile, asked officers to exercise utmost care in future decisions, always prioritizing public interest. “Gulmarg holds immense significance and is famous worldwide, lapses in such places are unacceptable, as people form their impression of government from such places”.
Highlighting snowfall’s critical role in the region, Gulmarg MLA said it sustains winter tourism in Gulmarg, a prime snow destination and serves as a vital water source for over four constituencies. Amid the ongoing snow tourism surge, the government is organizing events to draw more visitors, he said.
It is noteworthy that residents in snowbound areas complained about delayed clearance operations during the initial snowfall. Government, earlier on Tuesday initiated departmental proceedings and placed five engineers of the Public Works (R&B) Department under suspension after reports of unauthorized absence from duty and delays in snow clearance operations—(KNO)
