Srinagar, Nov 4 (KNS): Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg on Wednesday directed departments to expedite the removal of bottlenecks affecting the Jhelum Water Transport Project, stressing that the ambitious initiative was being closely monitored by the Government of India.

Chairing a high-level review meeting, Garg assessed the progress of works being undertaken in coordination with the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and various departments to facilitate water transport operations along the River Jhelum.

The meeting discussed several pending issues, including road widening and removal of trees at Gund Parang, disposal of treated wastewater and provision of electricity and water supply connections at eight identified locations.

The Divisional Commissioner also reviewed the shifting of electrical utilities at Maharaj Gunj and Pantha Chowk, directing officials to accelerate the process to prevent further delays in project execution.

Other issues taken up included the development and improvement of approach roads at Sumbal and Sangam, removal of barricading at Amira Kadal and shifting of houseboats wherever necessary to facilitate smooth water transport operations.

The meeting also reviewed the proposed renovation of the Chattabal Navigational Lock and relocation of stone-chiselling units and dress vendors operating at Pantha Chowk.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Garg directed the concerned departments to resolve pending issues on priority and ensure effective coordination for the timely completion of preparatory works.

He emphasised that delays in utility shifting, road connectivity and other infrastructure requirements should be addressed through coordinated departmental intervention.

The Divisional Commissioner said the Jhelum Water Transport Project was being closely monitored by the Government of India and called upon all stakeholder departments to demonstrate urgency in completing their assigned responsibilities.

He directed officials to adopt a result-oriented approach and remove the identified obstacles within the shortest possible time to ensure uninterrupted progress of the project.

The meeting was attended by the Commissioner, Srinagar Municipal Corporation, Deputy Commissioners of Srinagar and Bandipora, Regional Transport Officer Kashmir, representatives of IWAI and officials from the Public Health Engineering, Irrigation and Flood Control, Urban Environmental Engineering Department and other concerned departments. (KNS)