Calls for coordinated efforts to resolve industrial issues
BUDGAM: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Budgam, Athar Aamir Khan, today visited the Industrial Estate (I/E) Rangreth and chaired a comprehensive review meeting regarding the development, functioning, and regulation of the estate.
The DC was accompanied by General Manager DIC Budgam, Superintending Engineer R&B, Assistant Commissioner Revenue (ACR), Chief Planning Officer (CPO) Budgam, Managing Director SICOP, District Officer Pollution Control Board (PCB) Budgam, Tehsildar concerned, Lead District Manager (LDM), Executive Engineer KPDCL, and other concerned officers.
During the visit, the DC conducted on-spot inspections of various industrial units and assessed their operational status, infrastructure facilities, power supply, environmental compliance, and employment generation. He also interacted with unit holders and stakeholders to understand their concerns and challenges.
While chairing the meeting, the DC stressed strict adherence to government norms and directed the concerned departments to initiate immediate de-registration of all units operating illegally or in violation of prescribed guidelines, emphasizing that no compromise will be made on regulatory compliance.
He further directed the PCB to ensure that all units operate only after obtaining necessary environmental clearances and strictly follow pollution control norms.
The DC reiterated that the district administration is committed to creating a conducive ecosystem for legitimate businesses and assured that genuine grievances of unit holders, particularly those related to incentives and subsidies, will be taken up with higher authorities for prompt redressal.
During the meeting, the functioning of the Common Effluent Treatment Plant (CETP) was discussed in detail, and the DC directed that a joint committee comprising SIDCO, JKPCC, and representatives of the Industrial Association be constituted to assess the quantity and nature of wastewater generated by units, including JKLI as well as rainwater inflow, so that a workable and sustainable solution for the CETP can be devised.
The issue of water supply was also deliberated upon, wherein unit holders highlighted the poor quality of potable water being supplied to the estate.
The DC directed SIDCO to explore the feasibility of establishing potable water connectivity through PHE to ensure access to safe drinking water within the estate.
Regarding power supply, the DC instructed the concerned PDD/KPDCL officials to ensure uninterrupted and quality electricity supply to the industrial estate for improving productivity and minimizing operational disruptions.
The DC also reviewed the drainage system in the estate and directed SIDCO to provide a proper and efficient drainage facility to enable clear segregation of rainwater and industrial effluents, thereby preventing environmental hazards.
On the issue of solid waste management, the DC advised SIDCO to work in close coordination with unit holders for proper collection and scientific disposal of waste, ensuring improved sanitation and compliance with environmental norms.
Further directions were issued to the R&B and UEED departments to take immediate steps for rectification and resolution of infrastructure-related issues in the estate.
The DC directed officers to maintain regular monitoring of industrial estates and ensure transparency and accountability in service delivery. He reiterated that the administration’s focus remains on sustainable and planned industrial development and urged all stakeholders to strictly adhere to norms, adopt environmentally responsible practices, and contribute towards the economic growth of the district.
The DC directed all concerned to work in a coordinated manner to strengthen the industrial sector in Budgam and ensure full compliance with all statutory requirements.