Urges depts to resolve public issues promptly, complete schemes within deadlines
SRINAGAR: In a series of high-level reviews, Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment, and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana on Thursday directed officials to expedite ongoing development projects and ensure their timely completion across Baramulla and Sonawari constituencies. These meetings aimed to assess progress, resolve pending issues, and strengthen public welfare initiatives.
During a detailed meeting at the Civil Secretariat, Rana examined the status of various projects in Baramulla, including afforestation initiatives, irrigation schemes, water supply, and infrastructure development. He emphasized the importance of expeditious clearances and early resolution of pending issues, instructing departments to coordinate efficiently.
The Minister prioritized the establishment of the City Forest at Azad Gunj, urging active pursuit of the proposal with the Government of India. He highlighted that this urban green space would enhance environmental sustainability and provide recreational areas for residents. Concerns related to tribal welfare, including forest clearances, road connectivity, and implementation of the Forest Rights Act, were also addressed. Rana directed officials to proactively resolve these issues to ensure tribal communities benefit equitably.
Infrastructure projects such as the Girls Hostel in Baramulla, Sangri Top-Sheeri Road, Kattianwali Road, and Kawhar Road were reviewed. Rana stressed the need for timely processing of forest clearances and NOCs to avoid delays. He also directed prompt action on major water supply schemes, including Delina Irrigation and water pipelines serving Delina and Jalsheeri, to guarantee uninterrupted drinking water.
Flood protection along Seesri Nallah was discussed, with Rana calling for comprehensive measures and a time-bound action plan to safeguard habitations and agricultural land. Upgrading rural water schemes across the constituency was emphasized to promote equitable access to safe drinking water.
The review extended to the Chandsuma Water Supply Scheme, where Rana urged exploring sustainable water sources and resource mobilization. Immediate interventions in areas facing water shortages, such as Kalayban, Heewan, and Sheeri, were instructed to mitigate public inconvenience.
MLA Javid Hassan Baig raised issues related to infrastructure, utilities, and civic amenities, seeking timely solutions. Several deputations also presented their concerns for urgent redressal. Senior officials from Jal Shakti, Forest, and Tribal Departments briefed Rana on ongoing projects and measures under implementation.
In the concurrent review of Sonawari, Rana assessed ongoing projects related to civic amenities, infrastructure, water supply, and tribal welfare. He underscored the importance of inter-departmental coordination for timely completion and effective service delivery.
The Minister reviewed the progress of 21 Jal Jeevan Mission schemes, which are ready for inauguration, promising significant improvement in water access. He directed departments to expedite formalities for their operationalization. Tribal welfare initiatives were also discussed, with Rana emphasizing effective implementation for socio-economic upliftment.
Addressing local issues, MLA Hilal Akbar Lone highlighted timber availability concerns, urging the establishment of a timber sale depot at Sumbal. Wild boar menace was another critical issue raised; Rana instructed the Wildlife Protection Department to assess and address the problem.
Further, MLA Lone emphasized the need for desiltation and conservation of Wular Lake, advocating eco-tourism promotion to boost local livelihoods. The Minister directed officials from Forest, PHE, and Irrigation departments to take appropriate actions.
The meetings involved senior officials from various departments, including Forest, Wildlife, PHE, and Flood Control, ensuring a comprehensive approach to development and environmental preservation.
Rana reaffirmed the government’s commitment to people-centric governance, urging departments to monitor ongoing projects, resolve issues promptly, and complete schemes within deadlines. He emphasized transparency, accountability, and efficient resource utilization to benefit the residents of Baramulla and Sonawari, ensuring sustainable development and improved public welfare.