• JCB, Tractors involved in illegal mining seized
  • Directs strict action against illegal construction along Riverbeds

POONCH: District Development Commissioner Poonch Ashok Kumar Sharma today conducted an extensive tour of various flood-affected areas of Poonch to assess the damage caused by recent flash floods and to review ongoing restoration and preventive measures. During the visit, Superintending Engineer (Hydraulic) Vipan Kumar, Tehsildar Haveli Azhar Majid along with other concerned officers were present.

The DDC also interacted with the public, listened to their grievances and assured them of early restoration and relief measures. The DDC inspected JCB machines engaged a day earlier to channelise the river flow into its proper course and directed the Superintending Engineer (Hydraulic) to ensure that the work is carried out effectively to prevent further damage and safeguard public safety.

He also inspected the protection bund damaged in the riverbed during the recent floods. He directed the concerned Executive Engineer (Hydraulic) to expedite restoration work and complete it at the earliest. He further stressed the need for proper management of the river course to prevent recurrence of flood-related damage.

The DDC also visited the SK Bridge, Bainch-Khanetar-Kalai, Chandak riverbed and inspected ongoing protection works. He issued strict directions that no unauthorised or illegal construction activity should be permitted along the riverbed. He directed the concerned officers to take stringent action against any violations and ensure strict enforcement of regulations in the area.

During the inspection, the DDC took strict action against illegal mining activities and seized a JCB machine and tractors found engaged in illegal mining at the spot. He directed the concerned authorities, including the Tehsildar Haveli, to initiate strict legal action and register FIRs against those involved in the illegal activity.

The DDC further visited the Power Grid Station at Chandak and reviewed the impact of recent flooding on the facility. He directed the concerned Executive Engineer (Hydraulic) to take immediate measures to strengthen the protection infrastructure around the station, including the construction of protection walls and crate works along the riverside, to prevent similar damage in the future.

The DDC directed all concerned officers to ensure timely completion of restoration and protection works and to maintain strict vigil against illegal mining and unauthorised construction along riverbeds, with public safety and the protection of vital infrastructure accorded the highest priority.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). ā€œHis article, ā€˜When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.ā€.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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