JAMMU, OCTOBER 22: Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Vikas Kundal, today chaired a meeting of senior officers to review arrangements for the Annual Darbar Move from Srinagar to Jammu for 2026-27. The meeting focused on ensuring seamless resumption of official functioning at the Civil Secretariat, Jammu, as the Darbar Move offices are scheduled to reopen on November 02, 2026.
During the meeting, the Divisional Commissioner reviewed arrangements for accommodation, healthcare, road connectivity, traffic regulation, power and water supply, sanitation, street lighting and other essential civic amenities required for the smooth functioning of Darbar Move offices.
Reviewing accommodation arrangements, the concerned officers briefed the Chair on the availability of accommodation for government departments and officials. The Divisional Commissioner directed the concerned authorities to address any shortfall through appropriate arrangements and ensure the availability of adequate facilities.
The meeting also reviewed healthcare preparedness along the Jammu-Ramban National Highway. The concerned health authorities briefed the Chair on the availability of medical staff, healthcare facilities and ambulance services to respond to emergencies during the Darbar Move period.
Taking stock of road connectivity and traffic management, the Divisional Commissioner stressed the need for timely repairs of damaged road stretches and potholes, particularly at locations prone to traffic congestion and accidents. The concerned road-owning agencies were directed to undertake repairs on a sustained basis, set daily targets and submit regular progress updates.
The meeting also discussed traffic bottlenecks at identified locations. The concerned agencies were directed to expedite necessary repairs, improve road conditions and maintain close coordination with Traffic Police to ensure smooth and uninterrupted vehicular movement.
The recurring vulnerability to landslides at Ramban and other stretches of the National Highway was also discussed. The concerned highway authority informed the meeting that traffic was presently moving on two lanes and that a Detailed Project Report (DPR) was being prepared for a long-term solution. It was emphasised that any future intervention at the vulnerable locations must be guided by a thorough scientific and engineering assessment.
The Divisional Commissioner directed the Jammu Municipal Corporation and other concerned agencies to intensify efforts to improve street lighting, maintain roads and footpaths, repair potholes and ensure cleanliness in city colonies and public spaces. The need for coordinated enforcement against unauthorised roadside vending and encroachments was also emphasised.
Underscoring the importance of advance planning and inter-departmental coordination, Vikas Kundal directed all concerned departments and executing agencies to inform Traffic Police and the district administration before undertaking road-cutting, utility works or new construction activities within the city. This, he said, would enable timely traffic-management measures and minimise inconvenience to commuters.
The Divisional Commissioner stressed that all departments must work in close coordination and ensure timely completion of preparatory arrangements for the smooth resumption of Darbar Move offices in Jammu.
The meeting was attended by IGP Traffic, J&K; Managing Director, JPDCL; Commissioner, Jammu Municipal Corporation; Deputy Commissioner, Jammu; Director General, Estates, Jammu; Managing Director, JKTDC; Regional Officer, NHAI, Jammu; Chief Engineer, Jal Shakti (PHE), Jammu; Chief Engineers, PWD (R&B), Jammu and Chenab Zone; SSP Traffic, Jammu; Joint Commissioner, JMC; Deputy Director, Health (Headquarters); Deputy Director, Estates, Jammu; Deputy Director, FCS&CA, Jammu; besides other officers who participated in person and through virtual mode.
