Rana convenes meeting on convergent issues of Forest, Jal Shakti Deptts

JAMMU: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, today convened a meeting with senior officers to address issues related to environmental conservation, tribal welfare and water resource management. The meeting was attended by Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF), Chief Wildlife Warden J&K, Chief Engineer, Jal Shakti and other officers.

While emphasising on the need for large-scale plantation efforts, particularly in eco-sensitive and deforested zones, Javed Rana directed the Forest Department to chalk out a comprehensive plan for afforestation during the upcoming monsoon season with extensive community participation. The Minister instructed the Jal Shakti and Forest departments to launch coordinated soil conservation projects, particularly in watershed and catchment areas, to address the growing concern of soil erosion.

The Minister called for immediate steps to promote sustainable tourism, including development of basic amenities, local stakeholder engagement and preservation of the fragile ecology of the region especially along Mughal Road. He directed the Forest department to coordinate with Tourism department and identify and develop trekking routes with proper signage and safety measures, aiming to boost eco-tourism and provide livelihood opportunities to local youth.

The Minister also reviewed issues related to the extraction and regulated disposal of fallen timber, instructing the concerned officers to streamline procedures to benefit local communities while ensuring environmental safeguards. The Minister took serious note of delay in release of pending wages of CAMPA employees, directing concerned authorities to ensure timely disbursement and improve financial management mechanisms. He reiterated the government's commitment to sustainable development, community-led conservation and prompt administrative action to resolve field-level issues.