MENDHAR: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, today convened a virtual meeting with senior officers of the Jal Shakti and Forest departments to review the restoration of water supply schemes and other essential services across the Kashmir division, in the wake of inclement weather conditions occurred over the past week.

During the meeting, the Minister had a comprehensive assessment of availability of drinking water, damage caused to water supply infrastructure and the progress achieved, so far, in restoring the disrupted schemes. Detailed briefings were presented by the concerned officers, who informed the Minister that restoration works are being executed on war footing.

They apprised that dedicated departmental teams have been deployed across the affected areas which are working round-the-clock to address the issues arising from snowfall, rainfall and other weather-related disruptions.

Expressing concern over the convenience and well-being of the public, the Minister directed the departments to ensure complete restoration of all affected water supply schemes within the next two to three days.  He further emphasized that, during the interim period, adequate arrangements must be made through deployment of water tankers, wherever required.

The Minister also stressed the need for effective public outreach through control rooms to ensure timely supply of drinking water and transparent dissemination of information regarding the ongoing restoration efforts.

The Forest Department apprised the Minister that firewood has already been supplied to the targeted beneficiaries in vulnerable areas. It further informed that the field teams are continuously monitoring the ground-level requirements and will ensure additional supplies wherever necessary to meet the public demand.

The Minister also advised the Forest Department to carry out a detailed assessment of any damage or loss to vegetation once weather conditions normalize, particularly in areas affected by avalanches and severe weather events.  He underscored the importance of undertaking plantation drives and soil conservation measures in a planned and scientific manner, aimed at protecting the flora and fauna and reducing environmental risks in the future.

The meeting was attended by Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) Suresh Rai, Chief Conservator of Forests, Kashmir, Irfan Rasool, Chief Engineer, Jal Shakti Department, Kashmir along with other senior officers from the Jal Shakti and Forest Departments.

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). “His article, ‘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.”.  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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