Srinagar, March 18 -- Responding to a query raised by MLA Salman Sagar, Health and Medical Education Minister Sakina Itoo informed the assembly that the project was sanctioned under Government Order No. 656-JK (HME) of 2022, dated September 15, 2022, with an estimated budget of Rs. 1899.74 lakh.

"The tendering process was initiated by the executing agency after obtaining administrative approval. However, the required statutory clearance from LCMA is still pending," Itoo said.

She further cited a ruling by the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, issued on September 6, 2022 (PIL No. 159/2002), which prohibits new construction within 200 meters of Dal Lake's boundary, barring repairs and renovations of existing structures. In light o...