Srinagar, Jan 7 (JKNS): Chairperson of the Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board, Dr Syed Darakhshan Andrabi, on Wednesday inaugurated several new infrastructural facilities at the revered Peer Dastgir Sahib Shrine in Khanyar, Srinagar, as part of the Board’s ongoing developmental initiatives.
According to news agency JKNS, the newly inaugurated works include an Administrative Block, Imam Residential Quarters and an Open Ablution Facility, which were dedicated to the public during a function held within the shrine premises. Waqf Board Member Syed Mohammad Hussain accompanied the Chairperson on the occasion.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Darakhshan said that multiple development projects have been completed at the shrine over the past three years, marking a phase of transformation and accountability within the Waqf Board. She said that after freeing shrine management from political interference, a new era of development has begun across Jammu and Kashmir.
“People are witnessing the proper utilisation of Waqf resources for construction, development and upgradation across all sectors. Our shrines have now emerged as places of beauty, equipped with all essential facilities for visitors,” she said.
Dr Darakhshan added that transparency, accountability and a clear vision have helped the Waqf Board achieve these results, asserting that the Board has become synonymous with development and good governance. She said the Waqf team is working round-the-clock to enhance facilities at spiritual centres across the Union Territory.
Among others present were Executive Magistrate Ishtiyaq Mohiuddin, Executive Engineer Qazi Mushtaq Ahmad and several officials.
Later, Dr Darakhshan chaired a review meeting to assess preparedness for Meraj-e-Aalam celebrations, stressing the need for coordinated efforts among departments to facilitate devotees. A comprehensive roadmap was discussed to ensure smooth arrangements.
She said the Waqf Board is fully prepared to provide all required facilities and will work in close coordination with the administration to ensure satisfactory arrangements at major shrines.
The meeting was attended by SP Hazratbal Hilal Ahmad, SDM Zubair Ahmad, DySP Traffic Mehmoob-ul-Haq, DySP Hazratbal Showkat Ahmad Beig, General Manager SRTC, Executive Engineer Water Works Aijaz Rafiq, BMO Dr Majid, AEE PDD Masroor Hussain, Sanitation Officer SMC Mudasir Banday, and officers from various departments. (JKNS)

