He converts defunct tractor into ‘Boom Spray Machine’ to combat COVID-19, earns praise from PM Modi on Mann Ki Baat
Dooru (Anantnag), Apr 12: Mohd Iqbal Ahanger, former President Municipal Council Dooru Verinag, is dedicated to transforming the developmental landscape of Dooru Verinag since his last election. Iqbal has been initiated a new initiative and noval concepts to ensures he contributes towards larger good of the society.
Iqbal told Kashmir Images that despite regional party boycotts during the 2018 Municipal elections, he and his team pressed forward with their commitment to serve the people.
Their journey faced a significant challenge with the outbreak of COVID-19 shortly after assuming office. Undeterred, they initiated a comprehensive outreach program, sanitizing homes, conducting fumigation, and following WHO guidelines diligently.
“Innovating out of necessity,” Iqbal said, “we devised a boom spray machine, originally used in Gujarat, to aid in the sanitization efforts.” Confronted with logistical challenges due to lockdown restrictions, they repurposed a defunct tractor into a 25k litre capacity boom spray machine, effectively reaching maximum areas.
“The reach out program started back then only,” Iqbal recalled. “We went door to door, sanitized people, started fumigation, and sanitization process to keep the virus in check. As per the guidelines of the WHO.”
Their exceptional work caught the attention of Prime Minister Modi, who acknowledged their efforts during a Mann Ki Baat Programme. “It was a dream come true moment that PM mentioned our name in his monthly programme,” Iqbal said.
Buoyed by this recognition, Iqbal and his team doubled down on their commitment to develop Dooru Verinag.
“The lockdown was intact as it was hectic to get [the boom spray machine] here from Gujrat,” Iqbal said. “We started thinking to make it at home and got the success.”
Their vision encompasses various infrastructural improvements, including roads, alleys, footbridges, overhead bridges, and even a clock tower. Iqbal remains steadfast in his dedication to transforming Dooru Verinag into a model city, continually striving for progress and development.
