Srinagar, Sep 24 (KNO): Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Kangan Mehar Ali on Thursday raised several issues concerning his constituency in the Legislative Assembly, seeking the establishment of a Government Degree College (GDC) in Gund, permission for overnight stays by tourists at Naranag, and upgradation of winter tourism infrastructure in Sonamarg.
Raising the issue of a degree college in Gund, Mehar Ali, as reported by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said the land documents sought by the government had already been provided to the concerned college. He urged the government to consider establishing a GDC in Gund whenever new degree colleges are sanctioned.
He also sought permission for tourists to stay overnight at Naranag, saying that although the tourist destination has reopened, visitors are currently not allowed to stay there at night.
On Sonamarg, the MLA said winter activities have been taking place for the past two years but need to be expanded and upgraded. He called for improvement of infrastructure and greater focus on winter tourism and winter sports in Sonamarg.
Mehar Ali also raised concerns over the outsourcing of mess facilities in hostels run by the Tribal Department. He urged the government not to outsource the hostel messes, stating that children from economically weaker sections may not be able to afford the additional costs.
He highlighted the issue of seasonal teachers, saying the matter exists across the region and needs the attention of the government.
The MLA sought the establishment of a Horticulture Department office in Gund, stating that land is available for the purpose and that he had already submitted a DO letter regarding the matter. He requested the concerned minister to expedite progress on the proposal—(KNO)