Shariq Peerzada
SHOPIAN, January 12:In a significant development, Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, the Secretary of the Department of Health and Medical Education, presided over a Public Darbar at Shopian under the UT government’s public outreach program. The purpose was to engage with the public, assess grievances, and address welfare and development issues.Various delegations, including DD/BD Council, MC Councillors, fruit growers, traders, tribal leaders, activists, civil society members, and youth, highlighted diverse concerns. These ranged from the establishment of a Press Club to the augmentation of hostel facilities, introduction of new subjects at the Higher Secondary level, provision of water supply, revision of Shopian Town’s Master Plan, development of Municipal Park, and enhancement of power infrastructure.Local concerns related to the health department were also brought forward, encompassing the need for a Maternity Hospital, filling vacant posts, improvement of healthcare facilities, and provisions for better equipment and accommodation. The Secretary expressed gratitude for the substantial turnout and assured prompt resolution of the issues raised.After attentive listening, Dr. Abid directed officials to note all grievances and demands, emphasizing timely resolution and inter-departmental coordination. He called for a focus on formal redressal mechanisms and directed the health authorities to address sector-specific demands and augment healthcare facilities.Furthermore, the Secretary encouraged heightened public engagement and cooperation to propel the district toward comprehensive development. Deputy Commissioner Faz Lul Haseeb briefed Dr. Abid on the district administration’s measures for public welfare.The event saw the presence of key officials, including Director Health Dr. Mushtaq Ahmad, SSP Tanushree, ADDC Dr. Nasir Ahmad Lone, ADC Dr. Zakir Hussain Faaz, along with DDC and BDC members and a large number of attendees from the public.The ambitious outreach program garnered appreciation from youth representatives, highlighting its role in fostering dialogue on welfare and development concerns. Dr. Abid’s call for extra efforts from officers resonated with the event’s overarching theme of addressing the needs of the people.
