Kishtwar: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment, and Tribal Affairs Javed Ahmed Rana on Saturday chaired a comprehensive review meeting in Kishtwar to assess the progress of key developmental initiatives across the district and later held a public interaction to address grassroots concerns.
The meeting was attended by Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) Sajjad Ahmed Kitchloo, MLA Kishtwar Shagun Parihar, Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Kumar Sharma, ADDC Vinod Kumar Behnal, ADC Pawan Kotwal, and senior district officers.
The Minister undertook an in-depth review of major sectors including Jal Jeevan Mission, irrigation and flood control, forest, rural development, health, power, and education. He directed officials to redouble their efforts to ensure timely completion of ongoing projects and effective delivery of public services.
Highlighting environmental priorities, Rana emphasised the importance of water and environmental conservation. He instructed Divisional Forest Officers to closely coordinate with road construction agencies to integrate conservation measures alongside infrastructure development, including slope stabilisation wherever necessary.
In a significant announcement aimed at boosting tourism, the Minister called for the development of the Kalamstar area as a major eco-tourism destination. Noting the untapped potential of the region to attract visitors and generate sustainable livelihoods for local communities, he directed the Divisional Forest Officer, Kishtwar, to prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR) at the earliest. He observed that the initiative could act as a catalyst for tourism-driven economic growth, opening new avenues for employment and enterprise in the district.
Earlier, the Deputy Commissioner presented a detailed PowerPoint presentation outlining sector-wise physical and financial progress under UT CAPEX, District CAPEX, NABARD, and other schemes.
Reviewing water supply infrastructure, Rana directed the upgradation of old water supply schemes and called for expedited certification under the “Har Ghar Jal” initiative. He also instructed officials to submit a DPR for a ₹2.75 crore lift water supply scheme for the Badhat (Saroor) area from Kandni Nallah. Special emphasis was laid on improving water supply and irrigation facilities in Badhat (Saroor), Tunder (Dachan), and other underserved areas to enhance agricultural productivity.
The Minister further directed the CEO Municipal Council Kishtwar to expedite the completion of the garbage dumping site at Khanwari Shalamar. He also stressed the need for swift electrification of 35 unelectrified remote villages and accelerated implementation of the RDSS scheme.
Taking a firm stance on environmental protection, Rana directed the Pollution Control and Mining Departments to strictly monitor and prevent dumping of construction muck into the Chenab River, warning that accountability would be fixed in case of violations.
He also reviewed progress on the proposed Gujjar-Bakarwal hostel and directed officials to identify suitable land at the earliest for its construction.
Later, the Minister interacted with people from across the district, giving a patient hearing to their concerns. Several issues were raised, including the urgent need for road upgradation, expediting ongoing developmental works, strengthening water supply schemes, regularisation of daily wagers, and release of pending wages.
Residents also highlighted the need for repair of damaged footbridges, creation of sustainable employment opportunities for local youth, relief and assistance for flood-affected families in Chasoti, and addressing drinking water shortages in Kishtwar town.
The Minister assured the public that all genuine concerns would be taken up with the concerned departments for prompt redressal, reaffirming the government’s commitment to inclusive development and responsive governance in the region.
