Deputy Chief Minister Orders Scientific Mapping of Khads in Jammu

The Deputy Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Surinder Choudhary, convened a meeting on December 24, 2023, to address the pressing issues surrounding Gair Mumkin Khads in the region. This gathering, held at the Civil Secretariat in Jammu, included key members of the Sub-Committee tasked with examining these concerns.

Among those present were Javed Ahmad Rana, Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment, and Javid Ahmad Dar, Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development & Panchayati Raj. The meeting aimed to review the current status and challenges related to Gair Mumkin Khads, which are non-arable lands often subjected to disputes regarding their management and protection.

Shaleen Kabra, Additional Chief Secretary of the Jal Shakti Department, provided an overview of the current conditions of these lands, highlighting the difficulties encountered in their identification and management.

Choudhary emphasized the importance of making decisions that prioritize public welfare. He stated that policy interventions must balance environmental protection with the need to safeguard the livelihoods and property rights of local citizens. The discussions delved into the existing conditions of Gair Mumkin Khads, as well as associated water bodies like Daryas and Nallahs, with the goal of offering relief to affected communities.

Scientific Mapping and Stakeholder Engagement

During the meeting, the Deputy Chief Minister called for a comprehensive and scientific mapping of Gair Mumkin Khads, Nallahs, and adjacent non-cultivable lands. This initiative aims to enhance understanding and management of these areas, ensuring that all stakeholders are adequately informed and engaged in the process.

Choudhary also addressed the impact of climate change on these regions, discussing ongoing measures to mitigate its effects on both the environment and local populations. He requested a detailed mapping of flood-prone areas to bolster disaster preparedness and reduce risks associated with extreme weather events.

The Deputy Chief Minister issued a directive for strict actions against illegal encroachments, ensuring that encroached lands are reclaimed across Jammu and Kashmir within a specified timeframe. This approach aims to reinforce land rights and environmental sustainability.

The Sub-Committee members contributed valuable insights, raising various public concerns that require immediate attention. The gathering concluded with a commitment to prioritize actions that support both ecological integrity and the rights of local communities.

The meeting was attended by several officials, including the Special Secretary for Jal Shakti and other relevant department representatives. This collaborative effort marks a significant step towards addressing the complexities surrounding land management and environmental protection in Jammu and Kashmir.