Minister for Forest, Ecology and Environment, Choudhary Lal Singh, today inspected various National Highway four laning construction works in Banihal, Ramban and Batote. Principal Chief Conservator of Forest, A.K Singh, District Development Commissioner Ramban Mohammad Aijaz, Senior Superintendent of Police Randeep Kumar and HoDs of Forests and its allied wings accompanied the Minister. The Minister exhorted upon the officers to ensure that the scenic splendor and natural resources are taken care of while executing such projects. He also stressed upon them to avoid dumping of muck in forest land, water bodies and other areas that may disturb the eco-system. The Minister also convened a meeting at Batote to review the status of implementation of directions issued by him during his last visit to the area. Senior officers of district administration, Forest Department and representatives of construction agencies attended the meeting. The Minister expressed serious concern over lackadaisical attitude of officers in following his directions regarding proper dumping of muck and upkeep of natural resources. He asked the executing agencies to strictly adhere to the terms and conditions of the contract adding that no violation will be tolerated in this regard. The Minister directed the executing agencies to construct retaining walls on both sides of Nallas where construction work is going on so that no more damage is caused. He directed the DFO Ramban and Batote to launch a special plantation drive to cover open mountains and hills in their respective areas. Later, the Minister attended the annual Sarv Dharam Sant Sammelan during his Batote visit. The event was organised by Shree Shree 108 Swami Bhuvneshwari Devi in the memory of her Guru 1008 Swami Rameshvranand ji Maharaj. Lal Singh also addressed a gathering at the Sammelan and exhorted upon them the urgent need to preserve the environment, adding that the Government is making all possible efforts to develop every open space as green gold across the State. He said the department is contemplating to promote eco-tourism in the potential areas. Several deputations and individuals also met the Minister during his visit at Banihal and projected their issues seeking an early redressal to the same.
