Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Nov 25: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest Ecology & Environment, and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, today held a comprehensive review meeting with the Chairman of Pollution Control Board (PCB) and others to discuss critical issues related to environmental protection in Jammu & Kashmir.
The meeting focused on identifying challenges and formulating actionable strategies to safeguard the region’s environment while ensuring sustainable development.
The Minister raised several pressing concerns during the discussion like operating of many small-scale industries without adequate pollution control measures.
Javed Rana called for immediate steps to ensure these industries comply with environmental standards and directed the PCB to strengthen monitoring mechanisms.
Stressing the need for stricter enforcement of existing environmental laws, the Minister urged the PCB to work towards enhancing compliance across all sectors.He also suggested awareness campaigns and capacity-building programs to educate stakeholders on the importance of sustainable practices.
He also took stock of the status of pollution control measures being adopted by brick kiln operators across the Union Territory. He asked for a detailed compliance report and called for stringent action against non-compliant units.
Recognizing the adverse ecological effects of unregulated mining and quarrying, the Minister emphasized the need for better inter-departmental coordination to regulate these activities and protect natural resources.
Meanwhile, Minister chaired a meeting with senior officers of Forest Department to review its key issues and development plans.
Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF), CEO CAMPA and Managing Director of State Forest Corporation besides other concerned officers attended the meeting.
The meeting focused on further streamlining the department’s functioning and enhancing its overall efficiency.
The Minister reviewed critical issues, including availability of timber across all regions of J&K. He emphasised the need for enhanced coordination among various departmental wings to optimize operations and achieve greater efficiency.
The Minister also reviewed formulation of Nagar Vans (Urban Forests) to promote green spaces in urban areas. He directed for preparation of a robust afforestation plan for the Kalidhar range to enhance forest cover in the region.
Javed Rana reiterated Government’s commitment towards ensuring equitable distribution of timber across all regions and directed the officers to address the needs of the public effectively. He stressed the importance of accelerating ongoing projects under CAMPA and leveraging technology to improve monitoring and execution.
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