Srinagar :Secretary, Rural Development Department and Panchayati Raj, Ramesh Kumar, on Wednesday directed officers to expedite pending sanitation projects, strengthen field inspections and ensure that completed infrastructure becomes fully functional across Kashmir Division.
Reviewing district-wise progress under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Grameen (SBM-G), Kumar assessed the status of community sanitary complexes, compost pits, soak pits, segregation sheds, plastic waste management units, decentralised wastewater treatment systems, faecal sludge treatment plants and GOBARdhan biogas plants.
He said the creation of infrastructure alone was insufficient unless facilities were operational and delivering the intended benefits to rural communities.
The secretary questioned delays in initiating targeted works, particularly community sanitary complexes, and said land identification and tendering formalities should be completed well in advance.
He directed district-level officers to ensure timely submission of proposals, proper utilisation of funds and continuous monitoring of projects. Officers were also asked to provide details of works funded, taken up for execution and completed.
The review identified land availability, inadequate technical training and shortages of dedicated personnel as challenges affecting the implementation of sanitation infrastructure.
Kumar called for improved coordination among departments, regular field visits and timely resolution of operational issues involving vehicles, electrical components and treatment facilities.
He said public expenditure must translate into functional sanitation infrastructure, cleaner villages and better services for rural residents.
