Deputy Commissioner Drass, Imteeaz Kacho, on May 23 laid the foundation stone for the new building of Government High School, Chowkiyal, along with Superintending Engineer, PWD (R&B) Circle Kargil, Dr. Tsewang Thinglas; Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Drass, Vishal Atri (JKAS); Councillor, LAHDC-Kargil (Bhimbat Constituency), Abdul Wahid; Chief Education Officer Kargil, Sonam Wangchuk; and Executive Engineer, R&B-II Division Kargil, Er. Mansoor M. Nissar.

The foundation stone ceremony was followed by a function organised by the school, which was attended by officials, local residents including senior citizens, and students from various schools.

Students presented cultural song and dance performances during the event.

In his address, the Deputy Commissioner thanked the village community and school authorities for inviting him to the ceremony and appreciated Councillor Abdul Wahid for his efforts in initiating the project and promoting educational development in the area.

While appreciating the role of the Public Works Department, the DC directed the department to complete the construction within the stipulated timeframe while ensuring high-quality standards and making the building fully winter-friendly.

The Deputy Commissioner expressed satisfaction that the school building is being constructed at a central and suitable location. He hoped that after completion, the institution would emerge as a world-class educational centre.

“It would not be surprising if students from other parts of the country come here to study,” he remarked.

He further reiterated the Administration’s commitment towards strengthening quality education and improving infrastructure in the newly formed Drass district.

Superintending Engineer Dr. Tsewang Thinglas, Councillor Abdul Wahid, and Chief Education Officer Sonam Wangchuk also addressed the gathering.
Local residents and school authorities expressed gratitude to the District Administration for initiating the much-needed educational infrastructure project in the area.

The project is being executed under SAMAGRA by the R&B-II Division Kargil at an estimated cost of Rs 220 lakh. It aims to strengthen educational infrastructure in the region by providing improved facilities for students and staff.

Earlier, the Deputy Commissioner also met residents of Throngos on his way to Chowkiyal and interacted with them regarding local issues. Residents raised concerns related to education, handicrafts, skill development centres, and the need for a public park.

Women from the area sought support for establishing handicraft and skill centres to help generate livelihood opportunities. The Deputy Commissioner assured them that the issues would be looked into for early resolution.