Recently JK Govt approved diversion of forest land for 29 Water Supply Schemes

The projects mostly pertained to water supply infrastructure projects related to Jal Jeevan Mission for augmentation of water supply schemes in the districts.

Additionally, clearance has been given for diversion of 1.23 hectare of forest land of Social Forestry Division Baramulla for Srinagar-Baramulla-Uri road.

After a high level meeting of Union Forest Minister Bhupender Yadav and JK Forest Minister Javed Rana held last week, MoEFCC moved promptly and expedited Phase-III clearance of the projects on 1st February and accordingly JK Forest Department has approved diversion of requisitioned forest land subject to compensatory afforestation.

It is pertinent to mention that Javed Ahmed Rana, had recently met Union Forest Minister in New Delhi and urged him to expedite the clearance of pending cases under the Forest Conservation Act related to Jal Jeevan Mission, awaiting Phase-III clearance at the regional office, so that water infrastructure projects in forested areas can be implemented without further delay. The Union Minister had acknowledged the concerns raised and assured full cooperation from the central government.

To expedite completion of Jal Jeevan Mission that aims to provide tap water connection to every household, six projects that have been cleared included Water Supply Schemes Chigla Balota, Chakal, Tikri, Kund, Chatrari besides improvement and augmentation of WSS Lalli.