A comprehensive meeting was held today under the chairmanship of the District Development Commissioner( DDC), Dr. Basharat Qayoom to review the augmentation of the irrigation system and assess advance preparations for the upcoming agricultural season.
The discussions centered on enhancing water use efficiency through desilting, track lining to plug pilferages ,restoring the lift irrigation system and ensuring sustainable agricultural productivity.
The significant role of the Rural Development and Revenue Departments was emphasized in planning and executing irrigation-related initiatives at the grassroots level. Dr. Qayoom directed the Irrigation and Flood Control (I&FC) Department to coordinate with all BDOs to identify irrigation channels that require intervention for its incorporation in annual plan.
To facilitate a structured approach, the District Development Commissioner proposed the formation of a three-member team, led by an engineer of at least AE rank, to submit detailed reports to the District Mineral Officer(DMO), prioritizing critical irrigation schemes.
In addition, the District Development Commissioner directed all Tehsildars to compile and submit a Tehsil-wise data report to identify and address encroachments or other issues that could hinder irrigation infrastructure and related projects.
The RDD was tasked with preparation and approval of identified works by mobilizing field functionaries to conduct field visits and contribute to the development of detailed irrigation plans. These plans will be submitted to the Assistant Commissioner for Development (ACD) for review and subsequent implementation.
As the nodal officer, the ACD will coordinate with all relevant officers to develop the plan, obtain the necessary approvals and oversee its execution. Furthermore, the Rural Development Department (RDD) was instructed to also focus on micro distributaries to develop an efficient plan.
The District Development Commissioner emphasised the importance of proactive measures and inter-departmental coordination for strengthening irrigation infrastructure and supporting the farming community. The meeting concluded with clear directives for timely execution, ensuring efficient irrigation management and sustainable agricultural growth in the district.
The meeting was attended by the Superintending Engineer (SE), Hydraulic Circle, Pulwama (HQ); Assistant Commissioner Development (ACD), Pulwama; Chief Agriculture Officer, Pulwama; Chief Engineer, REW, Pulwama; and Executive Engineer (EXEN), Irrigation Division, Pulwama/Tral ,Mechanical Irrigation Division, Awantipora; Irrigation Construction Division, Pampore; and Flood Control Division, Pulwama, Kakapora and Tral.
Additionally, All Tehsildars ,the District Mineral Officer (DMO), Block Development Officers (BDOs) and Executive Officers of Municipal Committees (MCs) participated in the discussions.