Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology, Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmad Rana, today received several delegations representing various public interests, who called on him to seek his intervention on a range of issues pertaining to their respective areas.

A delegation of Kashmir Timber Association (KTA) submitted a memorandum seeking his intervention in uniform implementation of the E-Way Bill system for transit of timber across Jammu and Kashmir.

The delegation, apprised the Minister that while the traditional docket system for timber transit has officially been replaced by the E-Way Bill in accordance with the prevailing rules, certain authorities continue to insist upon docket-like documents during transit. The Association stated that this inconsistency has created confusion among the traders and transporters, causing unnecessary delays and significant operational hardships for the industry.

They urged the Minister to issue clear directions to the concerned authorities to ensure uniform acceptance of the E-Way Bill in place of the docket system so as to facilitate smooth functioning of the timber trade across the region.

The Minister heard the delegation attentively and assured prompt intervention in the matter, directing the concerned officials to ensure that the E-Way Bill is uniformly enforced at all transit checkpoints without ambiguity.

Likewise, a delegation from Mendhar called on the Minister and sought upgradation of water supply facilities and other infrastructure development works in the area, urging early attention to the developmental needs of the region.

Another delegation also met the Minister and projected several local issues, requesting their early and sympathetic redress.

The Minister heard all delegations attentively and assured them that the government is fully committed to the welfare of the people. He stated that all genuine issues projected by the delegations will be taken up and addressed on priority.