JAMMU: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, today chaired a meeting to review the annual action plan for the financial year 2026–27 for Poonch district.
The meeting was attended by senior officers from various departments, including tourism, planning, public works, forest, Jal Shakti, health, education, rural development and power.
During the meeting, detailed discussion was held on sector-wise priorities, ongoing projects and proposed new works under the plan.
The Minister stressed the need for realistic planning, timely execution and optimal utilisation of resources. He directed the officers to ensure that the plan reflects the actual needs of the people, with a focus on improving the basic infrastructure, drinking water supply, road connectivity, healthcare facilities and education services.
Emphasising transparency and accountability, Javed Rana asked the departments to maintain close coordination and adhere strictly to the set timelines for projects completion. He also underscored the importance of involving the elected representatives in the planning process to ensure inclusive and need-based development.
The Minister called for prioritising the works that have maximum public impact, particularly in remote and under served areas of the district. He further directed the officers to closely monitor the progress on key projects and resolve the existing bottlenecks in a time-bound manner.
During the meeting, the departments presented their proposed outlays and highlighted the achievements and challenges.
The Minister reviewed the proposals in detail and issued necessary directions for refining and consolidating the plan.
Reiterating the government’s commitment to balanced and equitable development, Javed Rana said that the annual action plan should serve as a road map for accelerating the development and improving the quality of life of the people in the district.
Meanwhile, the Durga Nagar Welfare Coordination Committee today called on Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, at his official residence to highlight the pressing problems faced by the locals there.
The Minister was apprised of the difficulties being faced by the residents due to irregular water supply, dependence on private water tankers and gaps in sanitation services.
The committee also requested that the Power Development Department (PDD) be directed to classify the MU-9 Feeder at CPS Muthi as an essential services feeder.
The delegation also informed Javed Rana that a survey for construction of a one lakh gallon water reservoir at Durga Nagar had already been conducted as per earlier directions and an estimate amounting ₹32 lakh had been prepared. However, they informed that the required funds have not been released so far and sought Minister’s intervention for expediting the same.
Javed Rana acknowledged the hardships faced by the public and emphasised that ensuring easy access to essential facilities, particularly safe drinking water, power and other essentials remains a top priority of the government.
Taking a serious view of the matter, the Minister directed the concerned departments, particularly Jal Shakti, to take immediate steps to streamline and augment the water supply in the area. He also called for assessment and upgradation of the existing pipeline infrastructure to prevent leakages and ensure equitable distribution.
The Minister further instructed the authorities to strengthen sanitation and waste management mechanisms in Durga Nagar to safeguard the public health and maintain hygiene standards.
Reiterating the government’s commitment to responsive governance, Javed Rana assured that all genuine public grievances will be addressed on priority and directed the officials to ensure visible improvement.
