Duo call for strengthening flood protection infra, improved irrigation network
Srinagar : Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, along with Advisor to Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani Friday chaired a high-level review meeting at the Civil Secretariat, Srinagar to assess the functioning and progress of the Irrigation and Flood Control (I & FC) sector across Kashmir Division.
The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary, Jal Shakti Department, Shaleen Kabra, senior officers of the department and representatives of various wings associated with the irrigation & flood management and PHE.
Addressing the meeting Javed Rana emphasized the urgent need to enhance flood protection infrastructure in the Kashmir Valley, particularly along the River Jhelum and its tributaries, to mitigate flood risks and protect lives and property. He reviewed the progress of various flood management projects and instructed officials to accelerate ongoing works while adhering to quality standards and timelines, aiming for completion before the monsoon season. Rana highlighted the importance of continuous monitoring, inter-departmental coordination, and proactive planning in flood management, urging officers to identify and resolve any obstacles to progress. Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani reinforced the necessity for a long-term strategy in flood management, advocating for stronger embankments, increased river capacity, and timely execution of flood protection initiatives. He also stressed the significance of sustainable water use and rainwater harvesting. A detailed presentation during the meeting outlined the measures taken to mitigate flood risks, including desilting, dredging, and the status of various flood management projects funded under different schemes. The meeting reviewed the Prime Minister’s Development Package (PMDP), noting substantial completion of Phase-I works and ongoing Phase-II projects, which involve significant financial investment. A comprehensive safety audit of embankments was initiated to assess vulnerabilities and identify critical interventions, resulting in the identification of 62 flood mitigation works, with several already completed or in advanced stages. The Irrigation and Flood Control sector reported substantial progress in the 2026-27 budget, with numerous ongoing and new projects aimed at strengthening irrigation and flood management infrastructure. Key projects completed under the NABARD-supported program included significant improvements to irrigation and flood management systems across various districts, reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing water resource infrastructure and agricultural support in the region.
