Excelsior Correspondent
TANGMARG, Sept 9: Terming the last three years a golden era for the departments under his charge, Minister for PHE, Irrigation and Flood Control Taj Mohi -ud -Din today said consolidation of water resources in the State was a major achievement during the period.
Addressing a public meeting at Bhanderkote in Tangmarg today, the Minister said under his leadership many historic steps to preserve, protect and consolidate water resources in the State were taken by the Government. He said J&K Water Resources Act 2010 was an important milestone in this direction. He said several other steps were taken like construction of Ravi Canal and construction of artificial lake Jammu Tawi, Chattabal weir and stabilization of water level in Jehlum, besides stabilization and improvement of many old and important irrigation schemes.
Mr Taj said around Rs. 1000 crore have been realized as water usage charges from various agencies which is around one third of the State’s total revenues. He said water usage charges collected would be utilzied for buying back power projects or improving water resources in the State. For this, he said recently an ordinance was also issued by the Government.
Responding to the local demands, the Minister announced release of Rs 1.50 crore for Water Supply Scheme (WSS) at Bhanderkote. He also directed for preparation of project for improving and maintaining Roose Kute Canal and upgradation of local reservoir and distribution network. He also directed for completion of flood protection works in the area on priority.
The Minister also directed for formulation of project report for irrigating orchards and kandi areas in the locality.
Chief Engineer, PHE Kashmir G.R. Zargar and officers of district administration accompanied the Minister during.
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