Jammu: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology and Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana on Tuesday laid the foundation stone for restoration and construction of flood protection works worth ₹2.47 crore at Fattu Kotli, Garkhal along the left bank of the Chenab River.
The Minister was accompanied by Mohan Lal Bhagat and senior departmental officers.
Addressing the gathering, Rana said strengthening flood management infrastructure remains a top priority for the government and noted that the intervention at Fattu Kotli would enhance the resilience of vulnerable areas against flood threats.
He emphasised the importance of constructing durable and effective protective structures along vulnerable riverbanks to safeguard lives, property and agricultural land from recurring floods.
With the monsoon season approaching, the Minister stressed the need to expedite flood protection works across the Union Territory and directed the concerned departments and executing agencies to ensure timely completion of projects while maintaining prescribed quality standards.
Rana reiterated the government’s commitment towards developing robust flood mitigation infrastructure and said all vulnerable stretches along major rivers would be addressed on priority.
He also urged officers to adopt a proactive approach towards maintenance and strengthening of existing flood protection structures, particularly in areas prone to erosion and inundation.
Earlier, the Minister inspected the damaged Tawi embankment at Bhagatpur village in Marh block of Jammu district.
During the visit, he reviewed the damaged portion of the embankment and sought a detailed report from officials regarding the restoration plan. He stressed the need for timely repairs and long-term strengthening of flood protection infrastructure in vulnerable areas.
The Minister also interacted with local residents and public representatives, who raised various issues related to flood protection and water management. Assuring them of government support, Rana said all genuine concerns would be addressed in a time-bound manner.
