Jammu, Oct 16 (KNS): Incomplete drinking water supply projects across Jammu division have been directed to be taken up on priority for early commissioning, with Minister for Jal Shakti Javed Ahmed Rana asking officials to complete works nearing completion before the onset of winter.

The directions were issued during a review meeting at the Civil Secretariat Jammu on Friday, where the Minister assessed the physical and financial progress of projects under the Jal Shakti and Irrigation and Flood Control departments.

Rana directed officials to identify and remove bottlenecks delaying drinking water schemes, particularly those at advanced stages of completion.

He asked the department to conduct advance testing of pipelines, pumping systems, storage tanks and other infrastructure to identify technical faults before commissioning the projects.

The Minister said incomplete schemes should be prioritised to ensure that drinking water facilities become operational without further delays.

He also called for regular field inspections to monitor construction quality and adherence to project deadlines.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Reviewing flood protection works, Rana directed officials to prioritise desilting of irrigation channels and strengthening of embankments along vulnerable stretches.

He sought a comprehensive river-wise report detailing the progress of flood protection projects and the status of works required in vulnerable areas.

The meeting also reviewed projects being implemented under the Capital Expenditure (Capex) and Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) schemes.

Rana directed officials to accelerate execution, address implementation delays and ensure timely utilisation of sanctioned funds.

He said financial expenditure should correspond with actual physical progress on the ground and called for transparency in the utilisation of public funds.

The department did not disclose the number of incomplete drinking water schemes, their estimated costs or the specific projects targeted for completion before winter. (KNS)