Javed Ahmed Rana, Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment, and Tribal Affairs, visited the Akhnoor constituency to review the progress of various projects under the Jal Jeevan Mission, irrigation, flood control, and forest departments. During the visit, Rana directed officers to expedite the completion of ongoing projects and ensure timely execution of key initiatives.
Accompanied by Minister for Sports, Satish Sharma, and local MLA Mohan Lal, Rana emphasized the urgent need to accelerate water supply schemes under the Jal Jeevan Mission which aim to provide tap water connections to every rural household. He stressed that officers should ensure faster project execution, maintain high standards of quality, and enhance coordination between involved agencies.
Rana also called for fast-tracking irrigation projects to improve water availability for agriculture and prioritizing the timely completion of flood control initiatives. He warned against unnecessary delays in vital infrastructure projects and reiterated the importance of meeting deadlines for the benefit of the public.
On environmental issues, the Minister focused on soil conservation efforts in the Kalidhar Range, highlighting the impact of climate change. He urged for intensified efforts in soil protection, particularly along nallahs, and called for afforestation programs on barren patches of land. These measures, he said, are essential for environmental sustainability, preventing soil erosion, and enhancing biodiversity.
Rana also stressed the importance of raising awareness about environmental issues and involving local communities in conservation efforts. He directed officers to develop a comprehensive plan for increasing forest cover in the Kalidhar range through afforestation, which would not only create livelihood opportunities but also contribute to sustainable development and climate change mitigation.
During his visit, locals presented memorandums and individual requests, raising concerns about water supply, irrigation, flood control, and forest management. Rana assured the public that these issues would be addressed promptly and instructed officers to work closely with local MLAs in preparing Detailed Project Reports for new initiatives and the effective implementation of government schemes.
Additionally, the Minister called for the restoration of defunct hand pumps on a priority basis to ensure that residents have reliable access to water.