DH NEWS SERVICE
KISHTWAR, Jul 3
Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar, Pankaj Kumar Sharma, carried out an extensive inspection of Kishtwar town on Thursday to review the status of public utility services, assess ongoing developmental works and ensure the effective delivery of civic amenities to residents. The visit formed part of the district administration’s continued efforts to improve urban infrastructure, strengthen sanitation measures and address public concerns through coordinated action by various departments.
The inspection covered several important locations, including the areas around Dak Bungalow, Shaheedi Road, Gudhali Chowk, Jamia Masjid and the main market. During the visit, the Deputy Commissioner closely examined the condition of sanitation facilities, drainage systems, roads and other civic infrastructure while reviewing the progress of ongoing development projects in these areas.
A major focus of the inspection was the town’s drainage network. The Deputy Commissioner conducted a detailed assessment of the existing drainage system to evaluate its operational efficiency, particularly in view of the ongoing monsoon season. He stressed the importance of maintaining properly functioning drains to prevent waterlogging, flooding and related public inconveniences. He directed the concerned officials to identify all blocked drains and remove obstructions at the earliest to ensure the smooth flow of rainwater throughout the town.
During the inspection, the Deputy Commissioner instructed the Jal Shakti Department to immediately address water leakages reported from different locations. He also directed the department to shift utilities wherever necessary so that ongoing developmental works are not delayed and public services continue without interruption. He emphasized that timely action on leakages and utility management is essential for improving water supply infrastructure and preventing unnecessary wastage of drinking water. The Deputy Commissioner also reviewed the overall sanitation arrangements in Kishtwar town and directed the Executive Officer of the Municipal Council to ensure comprehensive cleanliness in all localities. He instructed the Municipal Council to intensify sanitation drives, remove accumulated waste promptly and maintain regular cleaning schedules to provide residents with a hygienic environment.
He observed that effective sanitation management is one of the key components of improving public health and enhancing the quality of urban life.
To strengthen drainage management, the Deputy Commissioner directed the Municipal Council to coordinate with the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) for the desilting of drains. He said that timely desilting is essential to facilitate the uninterrupted flow of rainwater and reduce the risk of waterlogging during heavy rainfall. He emphasized that all departments must work in close coordination to complete the required works within stipulated timelines in the larger public interest.
During the visit, Pankaj Kumar Sharma also interacted with local residents and traders to obtain first-hand feedback regarding civic services and ongoing developmental works. He patiently listened to their concerns and assured them that the district administration remains committed to addressing public grievances through prompt and coordinated action. Residents highlighted issues related to drainage, sanitation and infrastructure, which the Deputy Commissioner took note of during the inspection.
Based on the observations made during the visit, the Deputy Commissioner issued on-the-spot directions to the concerned departments for the immediate resolution of identified issues. He instructed officials to ensure regular monitoring of developmental works and maintain close coordination so that pending projects are completed efficiently and without unnecessary delays.
Reaffirming the administration’s commitment to improving public services, the Deputy Commissioner said that strengthening civic infrastructure and ensuring better amenities for citizens remain among the district’s top priorities. He emphasized that continuous field inspections, effective monitoring and public participation are essential for achieving sustainable urban development and improving the quality of life for the people of Kishtwar.
The inspection was accompanied by Additional Deputy Commissioner Pawan Kotwal, Assistant Commissioner Revenue Idrees Lone, Executive Officer Municipal Council Mirza Mumtaz Iqbal, Tehsildar Nirbhay Sharma, Tehsildar Headquarters Mohammad Rafie Naik, Executive Engineer Jal Shakti, Executive Engineer Public Works Department (Roads and Buildings), along with other senior officers and officials from the concerned departments. The administration expressed confidence that the directions issued during the inspection would help strengthen civic services and accelerate developmental activities across Kishtwar town.
