BHADERWAH, DECEMBER 4: Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC), Sunil Bhutyal today reviewed the compliance of National Green Tribunal (NGT) guidelines and environmental protection efforts in the Bhaderwah region.
The meeting was attended by Chief Executive Officer Bhaderwah Development Authority (BDA), Block Development Officer, Executive Engineer PWD (R&B), Naib Tehsildar, officials from the Municipal Committee, Forest Department and other concerned officers.
The ADC discussed the environmental challenges having emerged due to increased tourist influx, unregulated construction and other unathorised activities. He stressed on the need for effective waste management, strengthening of monitoring in the eco-sensitive areas and issued strict instructions for the enforcement of NGT guidelines. He directed the enforcement authorities to act firmly against illegal constructions, encroachments, unauthorized earth-cutting, unplanned land use and violation of environmental norms. The Municipal Committee was asked to intensify door-to-door waste collection, proper segregation and disposal of the same. The meeting decided to conduct weekly cleanliness drives, especially in Udrana, Sartingal, Jai Valley and Padri.
Reviewing the condition of Neeru River and its tributaries, the ADC instructed the stakeholder departments to prevent illegal mining, and dumping of debris on banks of streams. He also emphasized regulation of vehicular movement in tourist destinations of Jai, Guldanda and Thanalla to reduce environmental stress, directing BDA and Traffic authorities to explore eco-friendly transport options and improve parking management.
The status of ongoing developmental works being carried out by PWD, RDD, and other executing agencies was reviewed in detail, with clear directions to ensure that all activities strictly adhere to environmental norms, maintain debris-free work sites, prevent blockage of natural drainage and obtain necessary environmental clearances before commencing any new projects.
ADC Bhutyal further instructed all departments to intensify public awareness programmes involving locals, hotel associations, traders and tourism operators to encourage community participation in environmental conservation. He directed officers to submit monthly progress and compliance reports, conduct routine inspections and take immediate corrective action wherever violations are noticed.
