SRINAGAR: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Dr Asghar Hassan Samoon today reviewed the implementation of court directions with regard to the restoration and conservation of river Jhelum. Dr Samoon inquired about the removal of encroachments, axing of trees and demarcation of the river and asked police and civil administration to work in tandem to achieve the desired goal.
Divisional Commissioner was informed that along the 17 km stretch, 210 structures need to be removed along the river. Deputy Commissioner Pulwama informed the meeting that more than one lakh trees have been removed along the river bank, while 213 structures have been identified for removal in the district.
In Srinagar, 687 structures have been demolished whereas 129 structures are yet to be removed. Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, informed the meeting that 2,64,000 trees have been removed along river Jhelum in Bandipora district and 84 structures have been identified for demolition. Similarly in Baramulla, 33 structures are to be demolished on the stretch of Jhelum flowing through the district.
During the meeting Chief Engineer Irrigation and Flood Control (I&FC) said that the dredging of the river is going on and preventive measures are being taken to check further encroachment. Dr Samoon asked officers to ensure implementation of court directions in letter and spirit. He also directed them to demarcate river Jhelum wherever it has not been done so far. Jammu and Kashmir High Court had directed removal of all constructions from the banks of river Jhelum and its tributaries besides putting a blanket ban on any construction along the river flow.