SRINAGAR: The Committee on Environment of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly today emphasised the need to introduce Environmental Science (EVS) as a mandatory subject across all schools of Jammu and Kashmir.
The Committee, during a meeting today, observed that the recent floods, frequent cloudbursts, and flash floods across the Himalayan region should serve as an eye-opener, underscoring the urgent need for preparedness to mitigate their adverse impacts.
The meeting was chaired by Chairman Committee on Environment, Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami, and members, including Dr. Sajjad Shafi, Peerzada Feroze Ahmad, Zafar Ali Khatana, Yudhvir Sethi, and Darshan Kumar, also participated in the meeting.
The meeting discussed the recent devastating floods in the Himalayan range due to ecological disorder and measures being taken to prevent disasters in the future.
At the outset, the Chairman stressed the importance of consulting environmental experts with experience across the Himalayan range to devise a comprehensive strategy for safeguarding the region against future climatic challenges.
Highlighting the significance of protecting J&K’s fragile ecosystem, the Chairman instructed the concerned departments to involve subject experts and prepare an annual action plan for rural sanitation.
The Committee reviewed the ongoing flood-related works and measures undertaken by the Irrigation & Flood Control Department, Pollution Control Board, and Environment & Ecology Department to prevent future flood situations and other climatic challenges in J&K.
The Chairman directed the concerned departments to submit detailed reports on dredging, desilting, and flood protection works across all rivers and tributaries.
He further emphasized the smooth functioning of all WSSs to ensure the supply of clean and safe drinking water to the public.
The Committee also sought comprehensive reports on mining operations and plantation drives in affected areas.
It was decided that awareness meetings and seminars on the importance of environmental protection would be conducted across various districts. The Committee also resolved to undertake spot visits to key infrastructure sites and facilities to strengthen environmental safeguards.
Senior Officers from the Irrigation & Flood Control Department, Pollution Control Board, and Department of Environment, Ecology & Remote Sensing briefed the Committee about ongoing projects and preparations aimed at improving environmental safeguards.
