JAMMU: “In preparation for the winters and more migrations in Jammu division during the season, the Jal Shakti Department has geared up its men and machinery to serve the people with added accountability and responsibility,” stated Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, during a review meeting of the department held at Civil Secretariat here today.
Chief Engineer, Hamesh Manchanda informed the Minister that the department is providing adequate and safe drinking water supply across the Jammu province. He added that all the Circle and Divisional offices are focusing on enhancing service delivery and infrastructure readiness to meet increased demand during the winter period.
The Chief Engineer highlighted proactive measures being initiated to address the increased water requirements while maintaining rigorous quality standards. The major initiatives discussed during the meeting included enhanced water supply preparedness.
It was informed that water reservoirs across the province have been checked and filled to maximum capacity to support supply, especially during peak usage hours.
The Minister directed the officers to maintain and repair the Borewells and Handpums in Pir Panjal area. He exhorted upon them to inspect all their respective areas where any deficiency of water supply is being reported.
Rana also enquired about the unauthorised installation of handpumps in many areas without approval from the authorities. He asked for initiating a detailed enquiry into the matter.
Javed Rana directed the concerned to speed up pace of progress on all ongoing works for timely completion. He further directed for re-tendering of some of the specific works in view of certain irregularities.
Javed Rana directed the Chief Engineer to provide a district-wise detail of areas of Jammu province facing a shortage of water supply. He asked to keep the emergency repair teams on standby to respond promptly to any emergent situation.
