Srinagar, July 10: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology and Environment and Tribal Affairs Javed Ahmed Rana, along with Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, on Friday reviewed the functioning and progress of the Irrigation and Flood Control (I&FC) sector in Kashmir and stressed the need to strengthen flood protection infrastructure and improve the irrigation network.
Chairing a high-level meeting at the Civil Secretariat, the Minister reviewed the physical and financial progress of flood management and mitigation projects across the Valley.
According to an official statement, Rana directed officers to expedite ongoing works while maintaining quality standards so that critical flood protection measures are completed in time. He also emphasised continuous monitoring, inter-departmental coordination and proactive planning to enhance flood preparedness.
The Minister called for restoration of defunct irrigation canals, repair of canal breaches and maintenance of irrigation infrastructure to ensure uninterrupted water supply to agricultural fields.
Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani stressed the need for a long-term approach to flood management, calling for strengthening of embankments, enhancement of river carrying capacity, regular maintenance of flood channels and improved coordination among departments. He also highlighted the importance of sustainable water use and rainwater harvesting.
During the meeting, officers presented the progress of desilting and dredging operations, restoration of embankments and execution of flood protection works under various schemes, besides reviewing the status of irrigation infrastructure and water availability for farmers.
The meeting was informed that under Phase II (Part A) of the Prime Minister’s Development Package (PMDP), flood management works worth ₹1,623.43 crore are being implemented under the Flood Management and Border Areas Programme (FMBAP) from 2022-23.
Following a post-monsoon safety audit conducted in October 2025, the department identified 62 flood mitigation works estimated at ₹71.56 crore. Of these, 16 works were completed under FMBAP and UT Capex programmes, while 28 of the remaining works have also been completed and eight are nearing completion, the meeting was told.
The meeting also reviewed progress under the UT Capex Budget 2026-27, under which 129 works, including 63 flood control, 46 minor irrigation and 20 major irrigation projects, have been taken up across Kashmir.
Officials also informed the meeting that several irrigation and flood management projects funded by NABARD were completed during 2025-26, including works in Baramulla, Bandipora, Ganderbal and Anantnag districts aimed at improving irrigation facilities and strengthening flood protection infrastructure.