Encroachment removal along water bodies including Jhelum being given top priority: Govt

Srinagar : The Jammu and Kashmir government on Thursday said that removal of the encroachment along water bodies including river Jhelum is being given top priority.

Replying to question of MLA Mubarak Gul, minister for Jal Shakti Department, as per news agency said that directions have been issued to all field officers to maintain strict watch and vigil and take immediate necessary actions in case of any reported encroachments.

He said that 412 Kachha/Pacca structures, 301 boundary walls and 3,35,704 trees were removed from the banks of river Jhelum.

The minister said that it is also a fact that Weir in Chattabal plays a pivotal role in maintaining water level in the Jhelum and it is fully operational and maintaining in the navigable water depth for boats in winter season only.

“The work for beautification of Jhelum bund was executed by I&FC Department for which funds were provided to this Department under Smart City Project under the aegis of H&UDD. Rs 68.02 Crores DPR was approved by CEO Smart City against the beautification of the Jhelum bunds, he said—(KNO)