Srinagar,Jan 7: Continuing the developmental journey of the Jammu & Kashmir Waqf Board, Chairperson Dr Syed Darakhshan Andrabi on Wednesday dedicated several new infrastructural works to the public at the historic shrine of Peer Dastgir Sahib in Khanyar, Srinagar.

The inauguration ceremony was held within the shrine premises, where Dr Andrabi formally opened the newly constructed Administrative Block, Imam Residential Quarters and an Open Ablution Facility. Waqf Board Member Syed Mohammad Hussain accompanied her on the occasion, while senior officials were also present.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Andrabi said that multiple development projects have been completed at the revered shrine over the past three years, marking a phase of transformation, accountability and transparency within the Waqf Board. She stated that after freeing shrine management from political interference, a new era of planned development has begun across Jammu and Kashmir.

“People are witnessing how Waqf resources are being properly utilized for construction, upgradation and development across all sectors. Our shrines have now emerged as well-facilitated and aesthetically pleasing spiritual centers for devotees,” she said.

Dr Andrabi emphasized that a clear vision, lawful governance mechanisms, and strict accountability have driven this transformation. “Today, the Jammu & Kashmir Waqf Board has become synonymous with vision and development. Team J&K Waqf is working round the clock to enhance facilities at all spiritual centers across the Union Territory,” she added.

Executive Magistrate Ishtiyaq Mohiuddin, Executive Engineer Qazi Mushtaq Ahmad and other officials were present during the inauguration.

Later, Dr Andrabi chaired a review meeting to assess preparedness for the upcoming Meraj-e-Aalam celebrations. Stressing coordinated efforts, she called upon all concerned departments to ensure smooth arrangements and adequate facilities for devotees. A comprehensive roadmap for effective service delivery was finalized during the meeting.

She assured that the Waqf Board is fully prepared and will work in close coordination with the administration to facilitate devotees at all major ziyarats. 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 other senior officers.