Seeking cooperation of the people in conserving power energy, Jammu and Kashmir government has said it spends Rs 25,000 crore annually on import of electricity into the state.

"The people need to cooperate in conserving power energy as the state spends Rs 25,000 crore annually on import of electricity," finance minister Abdul Rahim Rather said.

A second mini hydel power house would be constructed at Branwar in the central Kashmir, he said after laying foundation stone of Rs 3.13 crore Muqam-Hangoo road in his home constituency of Charar-i-Sharief in Budgam district.

"union ministry for new and renewable energy has agreed to provide funds for the project," he said.

Stating that the state is marching fast towards a golden era of development and prosperity, the minister said focus of the planning process is to ensure uniform development and equity to all the three regions of the State.

"It is our endeavour to provide all the basic facilities to the rural populace, especially hitherto neglected areas, at par with urban people," Rather said.

He added that building a vast network of roads in inaccessible areas under PMGSY has revolutionised the communication system especially in rural areas, which is bound to transform the socio economic profile there.

"With a view to give fillip to trade and economics in the state in a big way, all the unconnected villages and hamlets are being linked with main trunk roads," he said.