Jammu, 14 December (H.S.): Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, today chaired a meeting at the Civil Secretariat to review the status of power distribution and transmission infrastructure besides irrigation works and hydropower projects in the border districts of Poonch and Rajouri.

The meeting was attended by Managing Director JKPDCL, Rahul Yadav; Chief Engineer I& FC, Manoj Gupta; Chief Engineer Transmission JPDCL, Habib Choudhary; Chief Engineer, Distribution JPDCL, K K Thappa; CE Planning and Procurement, JPDCL, Vijay Kumar Balmotra; Chief Engineer Projects, Vikas Anand and other senior officers.

The Minister emphasised the need to further strengthen the electricity infrastructure and ensure a reliable and uninterrupted power supply to the region, particularly in remote and border areas. He underlined that robust power infrastructure is essential for economic growth, public welfare and improved service delivery.

During the review, the Minister held detailed discussions on the condition and expansion of distribution lines, substations and transmission corridors. He also assessed the progress of works being executed under various Central and UT-sponsored schemes. Issues related to right-of-way, erection of electric poles and clearance delays were discussed.

Directing the concerned officers to expedite the resolution of all pending issues, Rana stressed strict adherence to prescribed timelines. He cautioned that delays in infrastructure projects adversely impact the public service delivery, especially in sensitive and remote areas such as Mendhar. He also underscored the importance of regular monitoring and prompt redressal of public grievances to enhance the consumer satisfaction.

The Minister specifically reviewed progress on the Siot-Rajouri Receiving Station, terming it a major power infrastructure project for Rajouri district. He noted that the project is vital for high-voltage power transmission and meeting the growing electricity demand of the region.

Reviewing the Parnai Hydropower Project, Rana reiterated the Jammu and Kashmir Government’s focus on hydropower development and energy self-sufficiency, particularly in Poonch district. He directed the executing agency to ensure timely completion of the project, highlighting that it would significantly enhance the energy security, promote economic growth, improve living standards and support equitable development in the region.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Krishan Kumar