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SRINAGAR: The Government today informed the Legislative Assembly that the Public Works (R&B) Department will take the lead in coordinating with all concerned departments and stakeholders to address the issue of waterlogging on Jail Road, Kathua, which has been causing inconvenience to commuters and local residents.
This was stated by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, who holds the portfolio of Public Works (R&B), while replying to a Calling Attention Notice moved by MLA, Dr Bharat Bhushan. He stated that the matter is being accorded priority and involves issues relating to land records, jail premises, town drainage and housing, which fall within the jurisdiction of different departments and, therefore, require coordinated intervention.
Dy CM said that the PWD (R&B) Department will coordinate with all concerned stakeholders to facilitate a comprehensive and expeditious resolution of the issue. Surinder Choudhary said that, as per the report of field staff and local enquiry, the nallah responsible for the waterlogging presently lies within the boundary wall of District Jail, Kathua, constructed around 25 years ago. He added that, as per available records, the nallah is not registered with the Revenue Department.
Deputy Chief Minister stated that since the jail premises fall under the administrative control of the Home Department, matters concerning the premises would be examined in consultation with the Department and in accordance with applicable provisions. As part of the coordinated approach, Dy CM said the Revenue Department will verify the relevant revenue records and undertake joint demarcation of the nallah on the ground to establish its alignment and ascertain the status of any encroachment.
“The Home Department/Jail authorities will be consulted on the findings to facilitate removal of any obstruction in the nallah or identification of a suitable alternative alignment, without compromising jail security. The Housing & Urban Development Department and Municipal Council, Kathua, will ensure that the drain and outfall are properly integrated with the town drainage system and undertake necessary desilting and sanitation measures within their jurisdiction. The District Administration, Kathua, will convene and oversee a joint site inspection involving all concerned departments and facilitate timely decisions and resolution of any inter-departmental issues”, the Deputy Chief Minister said.
Deputy Chief Minister said that PWD (R&B) Department will focus on protecting the road and roadside drainage infrastructure and, once the alignment of the nallah is settled, take further necessary action as required.
“As an interim measure, the existing drains along Jail Road will be desilted and cleaned, while stagnant water will be diverted or pumped out wherever required. The Municipal Council and Health authorities will also be asked to undertake necessary sanitation and anti-larval measures in Ward No. 2 to safeguard public health”, he added.
The Deputy Chief Minister said that the Department would keep the local MLA apprised of the progress and welcomed his participation in the proposed joint site inspection.