District Level Environment Committee (DLEC) which met under the chairmanship of District Development Commissioner, Srinagar, Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary finalised the District Environment Plan involving a host of activities to be taken up different departments during next one year.
DDC Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary who had written to departments and members of DLEC for submission of sub-plans reviewed the detailed plans submitted by members of committee and stakeholder departments / organisations.
The annual aimed at improving overall parameters of environment in the district includes widespread plantation initiatives, measures to curb use of plastic/ polythene, improving the disposal of solid waste and hospital waste, community participation and mass awareness, strengthening Green Clubs, soil and moisture conservation, water conservation, measures aimed at curbing air and water pollution and grievance redressal mechanism.
Detailed presentations were made by departments of Health, Industries, Forests, SPCB, LAWDA, Education, Planning & Development, Revenue, Rural Development, Panchayats, Transport and Srinagar Smart City Ltd regarding various initiatives for environmental conservation and improving parameters.
The Chairman DLEC scrutinized the sub-plans which here deliberated upon by the committee in details and suggested measures were included for finalisation of plan. The chairman also took serious note of non-submission of plan from municipal authorities and directed for immediate action. He appreciated the Health and Forests department for working out a professional and outcome-based environment plan including sectoral interventions proposed.
The Srinagar Smart City Ltd has been entrusted for coordination to convene regular meetings, assist departments for improvising plans and implementation of various activities. Addl Deputy Commissioner, Member-Secretary DLEC made a detailed presentation of plans received while Jt Director Planning deliberated upon the financial component being provided to departments for effective implementation of the District Environment Plan.
It is pertinent to mention that National Green Tribunal has laid down detailed guidelines for steps required to be taken for improvement in environment and fixed responsibility for specific departments. The District Level Environment Committee constituted by the Government will meet twice a month for concurrent evaluation of steps taken and effective inter-sectoral coordination to achieve the targets.
Chairman DLEC also asked to issue a public notice inviting volunteers, professionals and interested citizens to join hands for taking steps to improve the local environment and taking part in activities planned by the departments. He also stressed on documentation of traditional knowledge on this front.