In a significant move aimed at bolstering security and improving communication in the remote and terror-affected areas of Billawar in the Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir, two army brigades have been deployed alongside the establishment of a new mobile network. This announcement was made by Union Minister Jitendra Singh during a public gathering on Saturday.
The deployment of the two armed brigades, one already present in Sarthal and another newly established in Rampur township, will provide continuous military presence and facilitate better coordination between the army and local civil administration. Singh highlighted the importance of this collaboration, stating that the brigadier will maintain a close liaison with the district magistrate to ensure effective monitoring and swift responses to any security challenges.
In a noteworthy development, the activation of the mobile network represents a major breakthrough for remote regions such as Lowang in the Bani area, which has lacked connectivity since the time of independence. The first mobile call was successfully made on Friday evening, marking a historic moment for residents. Singh emphasized that this new connectivity not only benefits the local population and students but also enables the armed forces to conduct real-time surveillance, thereby enhancing security in the area.
Furthermore, Singh addressed the long-standing demand for the widening of the Dhar Road, which connects Samba and Udhampur districts. He announced that the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is now preparing to transfer the road to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) for expansion. This infrastructure enhancement is anticipated to significantly improve local security and development, particularly in light of recent tensions between India and Pakistan.
In addition to these security measures, Singh shared updates on other initiatives aimed at improving living conditions in the region. He noted that 55 Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) schemes have been approved to mitigate drinking water shortages, with nearly 70 percent of the work completed, effectively benefiting around 15,000 households. Under the AMRUT 2.0 scheme, 1,250 households in Billawar town are set to receive improved drinking water facilities soon.
Looking towards the future, Singh proposed the development of a Master Plan for the Sukrala Mata temple, aiming to attract tourism to the area and parallel notable destinations like Mussoorie. This initiative could bring substantial economic benefits to the local community.
Singh attributed the successful implementation of these developments to the dedicated attention and persistent follow-up by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, asserting that these efforts have significantly boosted confidence and fostered a greater sense of security among the local communities in Kathua.
