Jammu, Dec 24 (KNS) : In a decisive push to fast-track infrastructure development and enforce financial discipline, Minister for Jal Shakti, Javed Ahmed Rana, on wednesday chaired a high-level review meeting to assess the progress of works under the Approved Plan for 2025–26 of the Irrigation & Flood Control (I&FC) Divisions of the Jammu region.

The meeting was attended by the Chief Engineer, I&FC Jammu; Director Finance, Jal Shakti Department; Director Planning; PD & MD, Jal Shakti Department; Superintending Engineers, Executive Engineers, and other senior officers of the Jammu division.

During the review, the Minister took a detailed division-wise assessment of the physical and financial progress of both ongoing and newly sanctioned projects. He directed the officers to strictly adhere to prescribed timelines and quality benchmarks, emphasizing that delays and substandard execution would not be tolerated. He also instructed the concerned authorities to expedite the allotment of works where tenders have already been finalized, so that projects commence without further delay.

Stressing the importance of time-bound completion of ongoing works for public benefit, Rana directed officials to prepare Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) with a clear focus on feasibility, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. He underscored the need for realistic planning to ensure efficient utilization of public funds.
“All concerned officers must regularly visit project sites to closely monitor progress and ensure achievement of set targets within stipulated timelines. There will be zero tolerance for compromise on quality, and any lax or indifferent approach will be dealt with sternly,” the Minister asserted.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Taking a tough stance on accountability, Rana directed the blacklisting of contractors who have failed to adhere to prescribed norms and contractual obligations. He further instructed that twchnical evidences from electronic service providers be obtained in cases where contractors are found violating guidelines or delivering substandard work, to fix responsibility and ensure transparency.

Reviewing the progress of works under UT CAPEX, NABARD, SASCI, and other schemes, the Minister emphasized the need to translate budgetary allocations into visible and measurable outcomes on the ground. He cautioned against unwarranted delays and called for proactive execution to maximize developmental impact.

The meeting also focused on critical infrastructure, particularly flood mitigation measures and irrigation networks vital for agricultural sustainability in the region. Rana reviewed the condition of canals, flood protection works, and drainage systems, while also assessing preparedness for potential flood-related contingencies.

He stressed timely maintenance, strengthening of vulnerable river reaches, and efficient operation of irrigation infrastructure to ensure uninterrupted water supply to the farming community and to safeguard life and property during the monsoon season.

Expressing concern over the drying up of rivers, the Minister noted that erratic rainfall patterns linked to climate change have intensified water stress. He emphasized the need for river rejuvenation initiatives, including recharge interventions, and directed I&FC officers to explore and implement recharging units aimed at reviving rivers and ensuring sustained water availability in the long term.(KNS)