Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC) Kargil, Ghulam Mohd (JKAS), on September 3 chaired a meeting to review the utilisation of unused and vacant government buildings across the district, including those identified in the Drass area.

During the meeting, it was informed that around 25 unused government buildings across various departments have been identified for possible utilisation. A department-wise plan was discussed to put these assets to productive use and prevent their deterioration due to prolonged non-utilisation.

It was decided that 10 buildings would be utilised by the Chief Animal Husbandry Office for departmental activities in different villages. Similarly, seven government school buildings would be made available to DAY-NRLM and Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to support their activities.

Further, five buildings would be utilised by the Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution Department for establishing ration stores, while one building located near the Public Park in Kargil would be considered for use by the Office of the Assistant Director, Tourism.

The meeting also discussed the possibility of outsourcing various government infrastructure and wayside amenities to ensure their effective utilisation, proper maintenance and improved service delivery to the public.

The ADDC directed the concerned departments to coordinate closely and take necessary measures for the timely utilisation of the identified buildings. He stressed that government assets should be put to optimum use for public benefit and to strengthen departmental functioning.

The meeting was attended by the Chief Planning Officer, Kargil; Assistant Commissioner Labour; Chief Medical Officer; Chief Animal Husbandry Officer; Chief Education Officer, Kargil; Executive Engineer, R&B, besides other concerned officers and officials.