Doda: Deputy Commissioner (DC) DodaHarvinder Singh on Saturday stressed on the need for maintaining balance between ecological preservation and infrastructure growth.
He was chairing a significant meeting with functionaries of Forest Department led by Conservator of Forests, Chenab Circle, Sandeep Kumar, besides officers of district Administration to discuss key issues of public interest, including status of cases under the Forest Rights Act (FRA), the installation of BSNL towers, forest clearances for developmental projects, eco-tourism promotion, and preparations for proposed afforestation drive.
The discussions emphasized sustainable development while maintaining a balance between ecological preservation and infrastructure growth.
The DC directed all concerned officers to expedite forest clearance cases to ensure timely execution of projects. He stressed the urgent need to improve connectivity by establishing BSNL towers in remote and tourist areas, including Jai Valley, Guldanda, and Kancher in Bhaderwah. Special focus was laid on the promotion of eco-tourism, with directives to identify potential locations that balance tourism development with environmental conservation. The DC also instructed the finalization of an action plan for a district-wide afforestation drive to enhance the green cover and combat deforestation.
Key topics discussed included forest land issues related to road construction under NABARD and CRF schemes, illegal constructions on forest land, and strategies to verify and resolve these issues. The DC emphasized the importance of inter-departmental coordination, particularly in handling forest clearance and ensuring compliance with regulations.
The meeting saw participation from ACR Sunil Bhutyal, CPO Manesh Kumar Manhas, ACD DodaManoj Kumar, ACP Doda Musharraf Haf, CEO of Development Authority BalKrishan, Divisional Forest Officers Mahesh Thakur (Territorial) and Social Forestry, Executive Engineers from R&B, PMGSY, and JPDCL, TDM BSNL, General Manager (Projects) NHIDCL, and representatives of the Sports Council Doda. Sub-divisional officers from Assar, Thathri, and Gandoh attended virtually.
Earlier, the Conservator of Forests provided valuable insights and guidelines on forest rights. Illegal constructions on forest land were discussed in detail, with directions to TehsildarDoda to verify land documents and address grievances promptly. Additionally, the DC reviewed the progress of road construction projects and sought a timeline for completion. He directed all departments to submit progress reports regularly and ensure on-ground monitoring of projects. Public consultation and grievance redressal mechanisms were highlighted as essential for the successful implementation of eco-tourism and infrastructure initiatives.
