JAMMU, APRIL 28: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, today chaired a meeting to review the flood relief efforts, traffic management, soil conservation initiatives and key development measures in Poonch district.
The meeting was attended by the Deputy Commissioner, Ashok Sharma and senior district officers from the concerned departments through video conferencing.
Reviewing the status of relief structures for the flood-affected families in Kalaban, Sarhuti and Sangiote, the Minister expressed concern over delays and directed the officials to speed up the process without further lapse.
Reiterating the government’s commitment, Rana said that relief must reach every affected household and no one should be left behind. The government is fully committed to provide relief to every affected family, he added.
Highlighting the need for long-term resilience, he stressed the sustainable rehabilitation measures, including soil conservation, slope stabilisation, drainage improvement and plantation drives. He directed that these initiatives be carried out in convergence mode with the Forest Department to ensure optimal utilisation of resources.
Taking serious notice of traffic congestion caused by improper parking in Mendhar and other areas, the Minister instructed the administration to take immediate corrective steps. He emphasised the regulation of heavy vehicle movement, directing that proper timing schedules be enforced to avoid disruption to school buses and emergency services, including ambulances.
The Minister also directed the officials to involve elected representatives in the planning and implementation of development programmes. He stressed that public representatives play a vital role in reflecting grassroots concerns and should be kept informed and consulted at every stage.
Rana reviewed the functioning of the Eklavya Model Residential School, directing that all pending construction works be completed within stipulated timelines. He assessed key aspects such as manpower availability, water supply reliability and infrastructure upgrades, including improvements to the dining hall and hostel facilities for the boys and girls.
He instructed the officials to address all the pending issues on priority to enhance the overall living and learning environment for the students.