Srinagar: A delegation from the Group of Concerned Citizens (GCC), Kashmir led by former Advisor to J&K government, Khurshid Ahmad Ganai met Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo in Srinagar to discuss a range of pressing civic, environmental and infrastructure issues affecting Jammu and Kashmir.
The GCC team included Ms. Nasim Lankar, Latif-ul-Zaman Deva, SRS Madni, Kifayat Hussain, G.J. Nehvi, Ab. Rashid Khan, Iftikhar A. Drabu, Ab. Majid Butt, Hakim Iftikhar, Khaliq-ul-Zaman Butt, and Secretary GCC Mohammad Rafi. Senior officers including Commissioner SMC and ACS (PWD) were also present during the discussions.
Solid Waste Management and Achhan Landfill
The meeting witnessed an extensive discussion on solid waste management practices in cities and towns, with particular focus on the Achhan Landfill Project.
The GCC delegation expressed serious concerns over the scientific and operational viability of the proposed “bio-remediation project,” questioning the technical capacity and past performance of the firm awarded the contract.
GCC Chairman Khurshid Ahmad Ganai urged the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) to review its calculations and expected outcomes, emphasizing the need for realistic projections regarding legacy waste management.
Responding to the concerns, the Commissioner, SMC informed that NIT Srinagar had technically appraised the project and that operations are scheduled to commence on November 3.
Flood Management and Mitigation
On flood management, the Chief Secretary appreciated GCC’s expert inputs and directed the Chief Engineer, Irrigation & Flood Control, to coordinate with Er. SRS Madni and Er. Iftikhar Drabu for further deliberations on the group’s suggestions.
Traffic and Road Connectivity
The GCC delegation also highlighted issues relating to traffic management and removal of road bottlenecks across Srinagar and other urban areas. The group reiterated concerns earlier raised in its meeting with the Chief Secretary on November 7 last year, particularly about delayed road connectivity works.
The ACS (PWD), who was present in the meeting, assured that the department would examine the issues promptly and expedite corrective measures.
Protection of Lakes and Wetlands
The protection and conservation of lakes, water bodies, and wetlands featured prominently in the meeting, with the GCC calling for immediate interventions in Anchar and Wular Lakes. The group emphasized that urgent measures were necessary to prevent further ecological degradation and safeguard these vital water systems.
Health Infrastructure Concerns
In the health sector, the GCC delegation drew attention to the dilapidated condition and poor infrastructure of the Maternity Hospital Anantnag and termed its location as inappropriate. They also raised concerns over the vacant GB Pant Hospital in Srinagar, urging its early operationalization for public use.
Responding to the concerns, Health Secretary Dr. Abid Rashid informed the delegation that a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the Maternity Hospital Anantnag had been completed, while a new project was under formulation for GB Pant Hospital.
The meeting concluded with the Chief Secretary assuring the delegation that the government values the constructive inputs of GCC and that their recommendations would be duly considered in policy implementation and future planning.
