Jammu, July 11: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology, Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana on Saturday reviewed the functioning of the Public Health Engineering (PHE) and Irrigation & Flood Control (I&FC) departments across Jammu Division, directing officers to ensure uninterrupted drinking water supply and strengthen flood preparedness ahead of the monsoon.

Chairing a high-level meeting at the Civil Secretariat, the Minister assessed the physical and financial progress of projects under PMKSY-HKKP, UT CAPEX, NABARD, SASCI, DA-JGUA and other schemes. He stressed timely completion of all projects to ensure early public benefit.
Rana said uninterrupted drinking water supply remains the government's top priority and instructed officials to keep all water supply schemes fully operational through regular preventive maintenance. He warned that any lapse in water availability would invite accountability.
The Minister also directed officers to expedite Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) schemes nearing completion and ensure regular inspections of critical water supply infrastructure. He called for efficient deployment of water tankers, identification of filling stations, daily monitoring of water sources and groundwater levels, and weekly review meetings to address emerging challenges.
Reviewing flood preparedness, Rana directed the department to maintain standby pumps, generators and adequate spare parts at strategic locations. He stressed the adoption of both structural and non-structural flood mitigation measures, supported by technology-driven early warning systems and close inter-departmental coordination.
He asked officials to fast-track works under the SASCI Disaster Programme, particularly in flood-prone areas, and submit details of all completed and ongoing flood protection and irrigation projects.
The Minister also emphasised the preparation of comprehensive DPRs for all new schemes to avoid delays, revisions and cost escalations during execution.
Officials informed the meeting that district-level anti-flood plans have already been finalised under the supervision of Deputy Commissioners, while monsoon response booklets outlining departmental responsibilities have been circulated among all stakeholder agencies.
The meeting was also informed that the proposed Extension, Renovation and Modernisation (ERM) of the Main Ranbir Canal, estimated at ₹998.75 crore under PMKSY-AIBP, has been submitted to the Central Water Commission for appraisal.
Rana further reviewed desilting plans for canals and khuls under convergence with the Rural Development Department, directing better coordination and strict vigilance to prevent theft of machinery and equipment.
He also took stock of the Tawi Barrage restoration works and was informed that all barrage gates and hydro-mechanical installations have been completed, while the remaining works are progressing steadily.