Abdul Basit
Bandipora, June 06: The Tulail block of Gurez Tehsil in Bandipora district is experiencing a critical staff shortage, which is leading to a halt in the implementation of important developmental projects and non-utilization of funds.
Members of Panchayat Raj Institutions (PRI) expressed gratitude to the government for regularly allocating funds for development in these remote villages. However, the absence of technical staff and a Block Development Officer is causing a disruption in the progress of developmental works in the Tulail Block.
The lack of staff has had a negative impact on various planned developmental initiatives in Tulail. The allocated funds, intended for the region's development and improvement, remain unused due to the inability to mobilize an adequate workforce, according to Mohd Afzal Lone, a ward member.
He also mentioned that the bills for the works completed by PRI members a year ago have not been released due to the actions of technical assistants who halted the process without providing any reasons.
Another PRI member revealed that last year, 17 lakh rupees under PRI grants lapsed, causing disappointment among the people who voted for development in the region. The Block Development Officer assigned to three blocks in Gurez has not visited Tulail for the past three months.
The PRI members have appealed to higher authorities for immediate action to recruit and deploy dedicated personnel. Their aim is to facilitate the effective utilization of PRI funds and bring about positive changes in the region.
On the other hand, Block Development Officer Nazir Ahmad of Gurez acknowledged the staff shortage, which has affected some works. He assured that they are working diligently to complete the assigned tasks on time.
He also mentioned that he will investigate any pending bills from contractors and the PRI members will also examine the reasons behind the delay in bill processing despite work completion.
