SRINAGAR: Minister for Jal Shakti, Javed Ahmed Rana, today conducted an extensive inspection of the 1.125 Million Gallons per Day (MGD) Rapid Sand Filtration Water Treatment Plant (WTP) at Mehjoor Nagar, Srinagar. Accompanied by MLA, Ahsan Pardesi and senior officers of the department, the Minister reviewed the plant’s operations, treatment capacity and service delivery mechanisms.

During the inspection, the Minister emphasized the significance of sustained water quality and efficient distribution. He lauded the efforts of the field staff and engineers but noted the pressing need to match the infrastructure capacity with the growing population demands of the city. The Minister also reviewed the functioning of Water Supply Scheme (WSS) at Padshahi Bagh, which currently serves a population of approximately 35,000 residents, with raw water sourced directly from the River Jhelum.

The Minister issued on-the-spot directions for augmentation of the WSS through installation of a new 2.00 MGD Water Treatment Plant. To facilitate this capacity upgrade, Rana directed the Chief Engineer, PHE Department, to expedite the acquisition of 6 kanal of land required for the expansion. He emphasised stronger coordination between the district administration and revenue authorities to complete the land transfer at the earliest.

“The Government led by Omar Abdullah remains steadfast in its commitment to provide safe and adequate drinking water to every household,”  Rana stated. The Minister reiterated that such inspections will be a regular feature to monitor on-ground progress, identify bottlenecks and ensure timely project completion under the Jal Jeevan Mission and allied urban water supply initiatives. Chief Engineer, PHE, Superintending Engineer PHE, Executive Engineers and other technical staff were present during the inspection.

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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