Javed Ahmed Rana directs fast-track flood relief and infrastructure upgrades in Poonch

JAMMU, April 28, 2026Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology and Environment, and Tribal Affairs Javed Ahmed Rana chaired a high-level meeting today to evaluate flood relief efforts, traffic management, and developmental projects in Poonch.

During the session, held via video conferencing with Deputy Commissioner Ashok Sharma and senior district officers, the Minister expressed concern over delays in providing relief to affected families in Kalaban, Sarhuti, and Sangiote.

He issued a firm directive to officials to accelerate the distribution process, asserting that the government is fully committed to ensuring that every affected household receives the necessary support without further lapse.

The Minister emphasized the importance of long-term resilience through sustainable rehabilitation measures such as soil conservation, drainage improvement, and slope stabilization. He instructed that these initiatives be executed in coordination with the Forest Department to ensure efficient resource management.

Addressing urban concerns, Rana took serious note of traffic congestion in Mendhar caused by improper parking. He ordered the local administration to enforce strict timing schedules for heavy vehicles to prevent disruptions to essential services, specifically school buses and ambulances.

Further focusing on tribal education, the Minister reviewed the operations of the Eklavya Model Residential School and set strict deadlines for the completion of all pending construction. He assessed infrastructure needs, including water supply and hostel facilities, directing officials to prioritize the living and learning environment for students.

Additionally, Rana underscored the necessity of involving elected representatives in the planning and execution of development programs, noting that their grassroots insights are vital for successful project implementation across the district.