Pushes for strengthening environmental management
DODA: District Development Commissioner (DDC) Doda Krishan Lal today chaired a meeting to review the implementation of directives issued by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and evaluate the status of environmental management practices in the district.
The DDC emphasized strict adherence to NGT guidelines and underscored the need for coordinated and sustained efforts to preserve ecological balance and ensure a clean and healthy environment for the public. He stressed the timely execution of the Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) project at Bhaderwah and directed the concerned officers to expedite its completion within the stipulated time frame.
Reviewing the progress of D-Wet projects in Bhaderwah, the officers informed that four such units are planned for construction. The DDC directed that all procedural formalities be completed promptly to facilitate early execution.
The meeting also reviewed the status of soakage pits, commercial establishments, public waste management units and CCTV installations. It was informed that 47 soakage pits have been completed and CCTV cameras installed at key locations to monitor and deter violations. The Chief Medical Officer (CMO) apprised that the STP at Sub-Division Hospital Bhaderwah is fully functional and effectively treating hospital waste, contributing to improved water quality.
Detailed deliberations were held on solid waste management, including door-to-door waste collection, segregation at source, development of community sewage sheds, provision of dedicated waste collection vehicles and scientific disposal methods. DDC directed all concerned departments and municipal bodies to ensure comprehensive coverage of waste collection services and to strengthen sanitation systems, particularly in urban and semi-urban areas.
Special emphasis was laid on promoting public participation through awareness programmes, highlighting the impact of human activities on the environment. The DDC directed stakeholder departments to prepare a calendar of IEC (Information, Education and Communication) activities and intensify cleanliness drives, especially along the Neeru River.
The DDC also reviewed the progress of the 6-kilometre fencing project along the Neeru River. The concerned officers informed that work is on. The DDC stressed completion of the project within the stipulated time frame.
To enhance transparency and accountability, the DDC asked for geo-tagged photographic evidence and regular reporting by field staff. Officers were directed to conduct routine inspections and submit daily progress reports.
The meeting was attended by ADC Bhaderwah Sunil Kumar Bhutyal, CMO Dr. Tanvir Ahmed, ACP Mushraf Haff, XEN (REW), Tehsildar Bhaderwah (virtually), BDO Bhaderwah, Accounts Officer BDA and other concerned officers and officials.