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  • Directs departments to complete execution ahead of monsoon

KATHUA: Deputy Commissioner Kathua Rajesh Sharma chaired a meeting today to review the progress of permanent restoration of road and other infrastructure damaged in last year floods and being executed under the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF).

He directed the concerned departments to accelerate execution to complete the works before the onset of monsoon season. He took a department-wise review of restoration projects sanctioned in the aftermath of natural calamities and assessed the progress achieved so far.

The meeting was informed that 14 PWD works are under execution in Basohli and 3 others have been completed, while 31 works have been completed in Billawar PWD division and one work is in progress.

Similarly PWD Kathua has completed 04 works and 26 others are under execution. The PWD Hiranagar has completed 11 works and work on the remaining projects is in progress. The meeting was further informed that restoration works being executed by BRO at Tikri, Sukha Nallah and Bhedu Nallah are progressing at a rapid pace.

Reviewing preparedness for the ensuing rainy season, the Deputy Commissioner directed the concerned agencies to clear blocked drains along roads and bridges to maintain smooth water flow and prevent waterlogging.

The Jal Shakti Department informed that DPRs for eight restoration works have been submitted for approval, while the Power Development Department reported that out of four sanctioned works, two have been tendered and the remaining two shall be tendered shortly. It was further informed that approval of restoration projects under the Irrigation and Flood Control sector is at the final stage.

Stressing timely completion, the Deputy Commissioner directed all executing agencies to take up the works on mission mode and ensure completion of critical projects before the onset of monsoon. He emphasized adherence to quality standards and creation of durable assets to enhance resilience against future disasters.

The Deputy Commissioner also called for close monitoring and effective inter-departmental coordination to ensure timely and efficient execution of all restoration works. ADDC Surinder Mohan Sharma, IAS Probationer Nidhi, CPO Ranjeet Thakur and other concerned officers attended the meeting.

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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