POONCH, MARCH 07: Deputy Commissioner Vikas Kundal on Friday chaired a meeting of the District Environment Committee to review the implementation of the District Environment Plan for 2024-25. The meeting focused on assessing progress, identifying challenges, and outlining future action plans for environmental conservation and improvement.
A comprehensive discussion was held on the environmental management, including: Air Pollution Control, Solid Waste Management Plan, Biomedical Waste Management, Plastic Waste Management, Collection, Segregation, and Treatment Plans, Control of Polluted Water Bodies, Domestic Sewerage Management, Mining Activity Management, Hazardous Waste and E-Waste Management, Water Quality Management.
While reviewing the solid waste management plan, the DC directed municipal authorities to ensure that waste disposal is conducted in a scientific and regulated manner. He also instructed the municipality to propose mechanical road sweeping for Poonch town and to identify suitable sites for the disposal of construction waste.
Discussing air and water pollution control, he urged the Pollution Control Authority to install additional air quality monitoring systems in urban areas and to conduct weekly water sampling near the town.
Regarding plastic waste management, the departments were tasked with prohibiting single-use polythene bags and issuing challans to violators. Officers were also asked to compile a list of single-use plastics and promote awareness among the public about the importance of reducing plastic waste.
“The environment protection plan is a vital step for the future generations,” said DC Vikas Kundal. “We must all seize the opportunity to contribute to a healthier and more sustainable future. It is our responsibility to save our environment and enhance the biodiversity around us.”
The meeting was attended by key stakeholders, including the Additional Deputy Commissioner Poonch, GM DIC, ACD, DFO, CMO, CEO, ACP, District Minerals Officer, EO Municipality, and other concerned officials.
