Jal Shakti Minister reviews department’s functioning

Srinagar, Oct 24: Minister for Jal Shakti, Javed Ahmed Rana, today said that we have a collective responsibility towards the welfare of people and should work towards achieving that goal in a transparent manner while involving the community at the local level.

He made these remarks during a comprehensive maiden review meeting of the Jal Shakti department convened by the Minister here at Srinagar.

Javed Rana said that the government believes in establishing transparent and accountable governance for the people who have pinned high hopes on the present dispensation. "The government is committed towards welfare and development of every nook and corner of the UT. Collaborative efforts are being ensured at all levels to move ahead in achieving the set goals”, he maintained.

The Minister said that failures arise when we shy away from our responsibilities and work without coordination. "I have confidence in the system that we will overcome the challenges. The way officers of the department are working is quite laudable and praiseworthy," he added.

Highlighting the significance of the Jal Jeevan Mission, the Minister said that JJM is a prestigious mission and strenuous efforts are being made to meet the timelines set for completion of the mission. He emphasised meticulous resource planning, judicious use of funds and mobilization of men and machinery as per the requirements.

The minister had district-wise status of tendering/allotment/starting of works under different components of various schemes. He took strong note of the less-performing areas and impressed upon the concerned officers to gear up their efforts and ensure deadlines were met, cautioning that the non-performers shall not go unpunished.

He also impressed upon the officers to maintain the highest level of transparency and accountability in the implementation process of the schemes and emphasised continuous monitoring for maintaining quality standards. He said that there have been some complaints about the delay in certification, supply of substandard material which needs to be properly checked and subsequent steps taken to rectify the errors, if any.