Disaster Recovery Works in J&K to Get a Boost
In a move aimed at accelerating disaster recovery works across Jammu and Kashmir, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo has directed all departments to fast-track the implementation of the Recovery and Reconstruction Plan-2025.
Geo-Tagging of Projects on BEAMS Platform
During a meeting to review the implementation of the Recovery and Reconstruction Plan-2025, Dulloo directed all departments to geo-tag their projects and upload them on the Budget Estimation, Allocation & Monitoring System (BEAMS) digital platform. This move is expected to create a unified digital record for monitoring progress, financial utilisation, and physical outcomes.
Accelerating Disaster Recovery Projects
The Chief Secretary also directed departments to accelerate the formulation and execution of projects under the disaster recovery package sanctioned for J&K. He emphasized that every reconstructed asset must be made more resilient to future disasters. This includes incorporating disaster-resilient features such as compliance with Seismic Zone IV/V requirements, elevated plinths, and slope stabilisation measures, wherever applicable.
Reviewing Progress of Disaster Recovery Package
Dulloo took stock of the Rs 1,579.09 crore recovery package approved by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) under the NDRF/SDRF R&R Funding Window. The package was approved for Post-Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) for damages caused by floods, cloudbursts, landslides, and other disasters. He noted that departments have so far prepared action plans amounting to Rs 1,225.78 crore, leaving a balance of Rs 353.31 crore to be operationalised by the jal shakti and agriculture sectors.
‘Build-Back-Better’ Approach
Emphasising that disaster recovery should not merely restore damaged infrastructure to its pre-disaster condition, Dulloo directed all executing agencies to strictly follow the ‘Build-Back-Better’ (BBB) approach. This approach involves not just restoring damaged infrastructure but also making it more resilient to future disasters.
Optimal Utilisation of Public Resources
Dulloo also called for strict cross-verification of beneficiary lists and project proposals with major ongoing schemes, including PMAY-G, Jal Jeevan Mission, AMRUT, SASCI, NABARD, PMGSY, and Samagra Shiksha, to eliminate any possibility of duplication and ensure optimal use of public resources.
Meeting Attended by Senior Officials
The meeting was attended by senior officials including additional chief secretaries, principal secretaries, administrative secretaries, and divisional commissioners of Kashmir and Jammu divisions. Deputy commissioners from all 20 districts participated virtually.
A Step Towards Disaster-Resilient Infrastructure
Dulloo’s directions are a significant step towards creating disaster-resilient infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir. By following the ‘Build-Back-Better’ approach and incorporating disaster-resilient features, the state can reduce the risk of damage from future disasters and create a more sustainable future for its citizens.